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 Despite her brother’s overtures, Jaden Newman is unlikely to become the next Kim Kardashian—and her father is certainly no Kris Jenner. — Brady Brickner-Wood, New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2026 The letter’s contents were confirmed to Deadline by multiple people with knowledge of Anson’s overture. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 12 Aug. 2026 Flanagan supporters are suspicious of Craig To Flanagan and her supporters, Craig’s vote for the immigration bill was not a pragmatic overture to swing voters but a betrayal. — Jonathan J. Cooper, Chicago Tribune, 9 Aug. 2026 To Flanagan and her supporters, Craig's vote for the immigration bill was not a pragmatic overture to swing voters but a betrayal. — CBS News, 9 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overture
Recent Examples of Synonyms for overture
prelude
Noun
  • Pendry Park City Park City, UT Park City is a world-class resort town and year-round destination where hiking and biking are a prelude to an exciting nightlife.
    — Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Cooper—who is reportedly in Paris to film a prelude to Ocean’s Eleven with Margot Robbie—was not pictured.
    — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 10 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on overture

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about overture

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