foretalk

Noun

foretalk (uncountable)

1. A foreword; preface.
   • 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 […]1872, Mary T. Tardy, The living female writers of the South
2. Small talk used prior to more meaningful conversation.
   • He goes on, "The most feminine error during the period of foretalk is to subject her partner to withering cross-examination."1970, Medical aspects of human sexuality
   • In determining whether the male is ready for conversation, the woman should not hesitate to employ the delicate techniques of foretalk.1976, Bryan Holme, The Journal of the century, Viking Press

   Synonyms:

   pleasantries