overture
|o-ver-ture|
🇺🇸
/ˈoʊvərˌtʃʊr/
🇬🇧
/ˈəʊvətjʊə/
introduction or proposal
Etymology
'overture' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'ouverture,' where 'ouvrir' meant 'to open.'
'ouverture' transformed into the Middle English word 'overtur,' and eventually became the modern English word 'overture.'
Initially, it meant 'an opening or beginning,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'musical introduction' and 'proposal.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an orchestral piece at the beginning of an opera, suite, play, oratorio, or other extended composition.
The orchestra played the overture to the opera with great precision.
Synonyms
Noun 2
an introduction to something more substantial.
The meeting was an overture to a larger discussion about the company's future.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35