foretalk

From fore- +‎ talk.

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.

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