prolusion Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a short introductory essay preceding the text of a book
    foreword; preface.
  2. noun exercising in preparation for strenuous activity
    warm-up; tune-up.

WordNet

Pro*lu"sion noun
Etymology
L. prolusio, fr. proludere to prelude; pro before + ludere to play: cf. F. prolusion, It. prolusione.
Definitions
  1. A trial before the principal performance; a prelude; hence, an introductory essay or exercise. "Domestic prolusions." Thackeray.
    Her presence was in some measure a restraint on the worthy divine, whose prolusion lasted. Sir W. Scott.

Webster 1913