overture UK /ˈəʊvətjʊə/US /ˈoʊvəɹt͡ʃəɹ/noun 6adjective 1verb 1forms 3 noun6 •An approach or proposal made to initiate communication, establish a relationship etc.My mother had no choice; one did not turn down such an overture from the regent. — 1994 •A musical introduction to a longer piece of music or a dramatic work (such as a play, an opera, or a motion picture).The overture was almost at a close; and silence being now more effective than any thing that he could urge in favour of the play, Courtenaye went behind the scenes:... — 1837 •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.The paradoxical use of an overture at the end of a concert occasionally gave rise to satire in the musical press. — 2017 •(Scotland) A motion placed before a legislative body, such as the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. •(no longer used) Disclosure; discovery; revelation.It was he That made the overture of thy treasons to us. — 1603 •(no longer used) An opening; a recess or chamber. adjective1 •Overt, that is, disclosed.Crest : A falcon, wings overture. — 1887 verb1 •To make overtures; to approach with a proposal. formsovertured · overturing · overtures
