Prolusion is a noun that refers to a preliminary action or event.

The Latin prefix P-R-O means ‘before.’ And ludere (loo DARE ay) means ‘to play.’ When combined, we get what forms the basis of our word of the day. Prolusion generally means something before an event or a written work. Here’s an example:

While I didn’t enjoy the concert’s prolusion, I found myself deeply enthralled by the music itself. Perhaps next time they should skip the introduction and get straight to the performance.