overture (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: ˈoʊvərtʃʊər

Definition

An introductory piece of music played before a longer work like an opera, play, or ballet.

Examples

• The composer spent months perfecting the overture to ensure the audience was immediately captivated.

• As the lights dimmed, the orchestra began the sweeping overture that introduced the main themes of the show.

• The overture was so powerful that it received a standing ovation before the first act even began.

How to Use overture

make an overture to (collocation)

To initiate a proposal or approach toward someone. — "The government decided to make a peace overture to the neighboring country."

reject an overture (collocation)

To refuse a proposal or approach. — "The union leaders chose to reject the management's initial overtures."

Synonyms of overture

Words with a similar meaning to overture:

• intro
• prelude
• prologue
• preamble

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