noun.
That which induces; anything that leads the mind to will or to act; that which influences one's conduct; motive; incentive.
noun.
A preamble, preface, or introductory explanation; an induction. See induction, n., 4.
noun.
In law, a statement which leads to the main statement; facts and circumstances stated by way of preliminary to show out of what the act or transaction directly in question arose.