foretalk

English

Etymology

From fore- +‎ talk.

Noun

foretalk (uncountable)

1. A foreword; preface.
   • 1872, Mary T. Tardy, The living female writers of the South:

     But before reading the poems, we look at the preface — it is rude to skip the preface, the little, private, confidential foretalk the author wishes to have with the reader […]

2. Small talk used prior to more meaningful conversation.
   • 1970, Medical aspects of human sexuality

     He goes on, "The most feminine error during the period of foretalk is to subject her partner to withering cross-examination."

   • 1976, Bryan Holme, Viking Press, The Journal of the century

     In determining whether the male is ready for conversation, the woman should not hesitate to employ the delicate techniques of foretalk.

Synonyms

• (foreword): foretale, foretalk; see also Thesaurus:foreword
• (small talk): pleasantries