preamble

noun

pre·​am·​ble ˈprē-ˌam-bəl How to pronounce preamble (audio)
prē-ˈam-
1
: an introductory statement
especially : the introductory part of a constitution or statute that usually states the reasons for and intent of the law
2
: an introductory fact or circumstance
especially : one indicating what is to follow

Examples of preamble in a Sentence

The preamble to the U.S. Constitution begins by saying “We the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, …”. His early travels were just a preamble to his later adventures.
Recent Examples on the Web The application of the first productive use rule to fugitive methane and biogas that was floated in the preamble was unpopular with the industry, as evidenced by the comment letters. Marie Sapirie, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 Salvation Army's exit from that store proved to be a preamble to the redevelopment of the entire strip mall for a car dealership. Jim Riccioli, Journal Sentinel, 14 Oct. 2024 Well, yes, but that may become just the preamble to the agency’s real story. Matt Reynolds, WIRED, 2 Oct. 2024 An overall win in North Carolina’s Umstead 100-miler that summer became her preamble for one of running’s most daunting races, Colorado’s Hardrock 100. Grayson Haver Currin, Outside Online, 22 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for preamble 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'preamble.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French preambule, from Medieval Latin preambulum, from Late Latin, neuter of praeambulus walking in front of, from Latin prae- + ambulare to walk

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of preamble was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near preamble

Cite this Entry

“Preamble.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preamble. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

preamble

noun
pre·​am·​ble ˈprē-ˌam-bəl How to pronounce preamble (audio)
prē-ˈam-
1
: an introduction (as to a law) that often gives the reasons for the parts that follow
2
: something that comes before and leads to something else

Legal Definition

preamble

noun
pre·​am·​ble ˈprē-ˌam-bəl, prē-ˈam- How to pronounce preamble (audio)
: an introductory statement (as to a contract)
especially : the introductory part of a constitution or statute that usually states the reasons for and intent of the law

Note: While preambles do not state law and therefore are not judicially enforceable, they are used to determine legislative intent when interpreting statutes.

Etymology

Middle French preambule, from Medieval Latin preambulum, from Late Latin, neuter of preambulus walking in front of, from Latin prae- + ambulare to walk

More from Merriam-Webster on preamble

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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