HOW TO PRONOUNCE
overture
/ˈoʊvəɹt͡ʃəɹ/
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American Pronunciation Guide · 0:47
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What does overture mean?
noun
- An approach or proposal made to initiate communication, establish a relationship etc.
- A motion placed before a legislative body, such as the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.
- A musical introduction to a longer piece of music or a dramatic work (such as a play, an opera, or a motion picture).
More meanings (5)
noun
- A medley of themes from a larger work, such as an opera or musical, typically played at the beginning but sometimes played at any part of the work or performed as a standalone piece.
- (obsolete) An opening; a recess or chamber.
- (obsolete) Disclosure; discovery; revelation.
verb
- To make overtures; to approach with a proposal.
adjective
- Overt, that is, disclosed.
Definitions regrouped for readability · CC BY-SA 4.0
IPA pronunciation
/ˈoʊvəɹt͡ʃəɹ/
Wiktionary contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 ↗Pronunciation varies by speaker and region. About these dictionary pronunciations.
In the pages of books
See this word in context.
He persuaded them, against the better reason of their older chiefs, to the rejection of every overture for peace.
There was an ominous, clanging overture to the charge when the shafts of the bayonets rattled upon the rifle barrels.
More book examples (3)
And yet here she was throwing herself back into Roderick’s arms at his lightest overture, and playing with his own half fearful, half shameful hopes!
If she makes an overture, it is an invitation to disaster; her hope of lawful marriage by such means is almost nil.
In America there is too often nothing ready but iced water--an ungenial overture to any feast--and you must wait until your order has been taken.