preamble Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a preliminary introduction to a statute or constitution (usually explaining its purpose)
verb make a preliminary introduction, usually to a formal document

LL. praeambulum, from L. praeambulus walking before, fr. praeambulare to walk before; prae before + ambulare to walk: cf. F. préambule. See Amble.

A introductory portion; an introduction or preface, as to a book, document, etc.; specifically, the introductory part of a statute, which states the reasons and intent of the law.

To make a preamble to; to preface; to serve as a preamble. R. Feltham. Milton.