pref·a·to·ry \ˈprefəˌtōrē, -tȯr-, -ri\adjective Etymology: Latin praefatus (past participle of praefari to say beforehand) + English -ory — more at preface 1.: of, relating to, or constituting a preface : introductory, preliminary < prefatory statement > 2.: located in front < a broad prefatory arch to the main apse — A.W.Clapham >