n. 1. A preliminary statement, especially: a. The introduction to a formal document that explains its purpose. b. A statement accompanying a law or regulation specifying its purpose or reason for enactment. 2. An introductory occurrence or fact; a preliminary. [Middle English, from Old French preambule, from Medieval Latin praeambulum, from neuter of Late Latin praeambulus, walking in front : Latin prae-, pre- + Latin ambulāre, to walk; see AMBULATE.] pre·ambu·lar′y (-byə-lĕr′ē) adj. |
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