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Definition of prologue

prologue

/ˈproʊ.lɔːɡ/
pro · logue
Plural:prologues
•
Past Simple:prologued
•
Past Participle:prologued
•
Present Participle:prologuing
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prologue Lexical Profile

prologue Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A separate introductory section of a literary, dramatic, or musical work that sets the stage or provides background context.

Example

"The novel's prologue introduces the historical conflict that shapes the main characters' lives."

2

An event or action that leads to and prepares the way for another more significant occurrence.

Example

"The small border skirmish proved to be the prologue to a much larger diplomatic crisis."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To introduce or preface with a prologue or preliminary remarks.

Example

"The playwright prologued the tragedy with a brief monologue delivered by the chorus."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

prolific
prolifically
prolocutrix
prologue
prolong
prolongation
prolonged

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed through Middle French from Latin prologus, which derives from Ancient Greek prologos ('a speech beforehand'), combining pro- ('before') and logos ('speech' or 'word').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Prologue. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/prologue
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