Introduction.
(Homonym: forward).
A short introductory essay preceding the text of a book; SYN. preface, prolusion.
ETYM Late Lat. praeambulum, from Latin praeambulus walking before, from praeambulare to walk before; prae before + ambulare to walk: cf. French préambule. Related to Amble.
A preliminary introduction to a statute or constitution (usually explaining its purpose).
Preface; introduction.