# overture

/ˈoʊvɝtʃɝ/ (US) · /ˈəʊvətjˌɔː/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/overture
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

a piece of music played at the start of an opera or play. It can also mean a friendly move or suggestion made to start a conversation or a deal.

For teachers: an orchestral piece at the beginning of an opera, suite, or other extended composition; also refers to an introductory act or proposal made toward establishing a relationship or agreement.

## Examples

- The orchestra played a famous overture before the opera began.
- The company made a formal overture to its competitor regarding a potential merger next year.
- While the musical overture established the production's somber themes, the diplomatic overtures occurring backstage were far more optimistic in tone.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'to' when referring to a social or business proposal.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.