overture

Meanings

1. An opening; a recess or chamber.
2. Disclosure; discovery; revelation.
3. An approach or proposal made to initiate communication, establish a relationship etc.
4. A motion placed before a legislative body, such as the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.
5. A musical introduction to a longer piece of music or a dramatic work (such as a play, an opera, or a motion picture).
6. 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.

1. To make overtures; to approach with a proposal.

1. Overt, that is, disclosed.

Etymology

From Middle English overture, from Anglo-Norman, Middle French overture, from Old French overture, from Latin apertūra. Doublet of aperture.