1. an introductory section of a literary work
2. an introductory or preceding event or development

1. to introduce with or as if with a prologue
Usage: formal

Examples

• The novel begins with a prologue set twenty years before the main story.
• Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet opens with a famous prologue spoken by the Chorus.
• The economic crisis served as a prologue to major political changes.
• Her early struggles were just a prologue to her eventual success.
• The author prologued the book with a personal anecdote.
• The ceremony was prologued by a brief speech from the mayor.