I.to play beforehand, by way of practice or trial; to prelude, rehearse (post - Aug.).
I. Lit.: “Nero Pompeiano praeludit,” sings beforehand, preludes, Plin. 37, 2, 7, § 19: “tragoediis,” Gell. 19, 11, 2.—With acc.: pugnam praeludere, to prepare one's self for fighting, Rut. Itin. 1, 257.—
II. Trop.: “aliquid operibus suis praeludere,” to premise, preface, Stat. S. 1 praef.: “ac Mariana quidem rabies intra Urbem praeluserat, quasi experiretur,” had only made a prelude, Flor. 4, 2, 2: “sic maria bello quasi tempestate praeluserant,” id. 3, 6, 1.
