overture

noun

ˈō-vər-ˌchu̇r How to pronounce overture (audio)
Definition of overturenext
as in prelude
a performance, activity, or event that precedes and sets the stage for the main event the parade down Main Street served as the overture for a weekend of fun and festivities

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of overture That could lead to overtures for Kawhi Leonard, perhaps reconsideration of Morant or, now, the somewhat wild notion of Trae Young. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 17 June 2026 The tension is playing out in public as leaders including Marco Rubio fight back against extremism while others such as JD Vance make overtures to the fringe. — Bobby Zirkin, Baltimore Sun, 29 June 2026 Despite the fact that American leaders paid scant attention to his initial overture, Sultan Muhammad pursued the relationship further. — Scott Spires Britannica Editors June 23, Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 June 2026 But the issue Americans should be concerned with here really isn’t FIFA, which has entertained other similar overtures before, but rather its own sporting reputation. — Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for overture
Recent Examples of Synonyms for overture
prelude
Noun
  • Analysts widely believe Monday’s announcement is a prelude to eventual sales of both Comcast and NBCUniversal, a theory that Comcast rejects.
    — Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
  • The current ceasefire is likely a prelude to the next round of war.
    — Ariel Cohen, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Definition of prelude

Browse Nearby Words

overtops
overture
overtures
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Cite this Entry

“Overture.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overture. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on overture

Nglish: Translation of overture for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about overture

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