overture

noun/ˈoʊvərˌtʃʊr/

Frequency rank: #12,931 most common English word

Meaning

an orchestral introduction to an opera or musical work; also, an opening move or proposal to begin negotiations.

Illustration for the English word “overture”

Example sentence

The composer's overture set a dramatic tone before the curtain rose on the first act.

Synonyms & related words

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