prolegomenon

American  

[proh-li-gom-uh-non, -nuhn] / ˌproʊ lɪˈgɒm əˌnɒn, -nən /

noun

plural

prolegomena

1. a preliminary discussion; introductory essay, as prefatory matter in a book; a prologue.

2. (sometimes used with a singular verb) Usually prolegomena. a treatise serving as a preface or introduction to a book.

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prolegomenon British  

/ ˌprəʊlɛˈɡɒmɪnən /

noun

1. (often plural) a preliminary discussion, esp a formal critical introduction to a lengthy text

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Other Word Forms

• prolegomenal adjective

Etymology

Origin of prolegomenon

1645–55; < New Latin < Greek prolegómenon, neuter of passive present participle of prolégein to say beforehand, equivalent to pro- pro- ² + légein to say (akin to lógos logos )