Synonyms for prelude

Noun

1. preliminary, overture, prelude, origin, origination, inception

usage: something that serves as a preceding event or introduces what follows; "training is a necessary preliminary to employment"; "drinks were the overture to dinner"

2. prelude, music

usage: music that precedes a fugue or introduces an act in an opera

Verb

1. prelude, serve, function

usage: serve as a prelude or opening to

2. prelude, play, spiel

usage: play as a prelude