Eelvaade

Eelvaade is an Estonian term that denotes a preliminary view or preview of something that is not yet final. In everyday use, it refers to an early look at content, designs, or products, intended to give an impression of what is to come without representing the finished work. The word combines eel- meaning “pre-” or “prior” with vaade meaning “view” or “look.”

Etymologically, eelvaade is formed from the prefix eel- and the noun vaade. The construction mirrors similar terms in other languages that describe anticipatory views, previews, or early glimpses. The sense of the word is informational and non-final, often used in contexts where audiences or users are invited to inspect, comment on, or anticipate upcoming material.

Common domains for eelvaade include software and digital media, publishing, broadcasting, and design. In software interfaces, eelvaade may label a preview mode for documents, images, or videos. In publishing and journalism, it can describe a pre-publication excerpt, teaser, or sample chapter. In architecture, product design, or multimedia projects, eelvaade refers to early renderings or mock-ups shown to stakeholders before finalization. The exact meaning depends on context and may range from a simple clip or snapshot to a more extensive preview package.

While often translated as “preview,” the term emphasizes provisional status rather than completed work. See also preview, teaser, excerpt.