An introductory section at the beginning of a book or speech that comments on aspects of the text: In the preface, the author generally tells why he wrote his book or what his intentions are.

1. To introduce a piece of writing, a speech, a remark, etc. by saying something to another person or to people before the main presentation: Sandra prefaced her new publication with a short statement of what influenced her to write another book about good diets for better health.
2. Etymology: from Latin praefari, "to say before, to introduce"; from prae-, "before" + fari, "to say, to speak." © ALL rights are reserved.

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