1. a preliminary discussion or introductory essay, especially to a scholarly work
Usage: formal; academic

Examples

• The philosopher wrote a lengthy prolegomenon to explain his methodology.
• Kant’s ‘Prolegomena to Any Future Metaphysics’ serves as an introduction to his critical philosophy.
• The textbook begins with a prolegomenon outlining the historical context.
• Her dissertation included a prolegomenon discussing previous research in the field.
• The editor added a prolegomenon to help readers understand the ancient text.
• Without reading the prolegomenon, students struggled to grasp the main arguments.