'prelude' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praeludium,' where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'ludere' meant 'to play.'

'praeludium' transformed into the French word 'prélude,' and eventually became the modern English word 'prelude' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a preliminary play or performance,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an introduction or preliminary event.'