introductory

adjective

in·​tro·​duc·​to·​ry ˌin-trə-ˈdək-t(ə-)rē 

: of, relating to, or being a first step that sets something going or in proper perspective

an introductory course in calculus

introductorily

ˌin-trə-ˈdək-t(ə-)rə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• beginning
• precursory
• prefatory
• prelim
• preliminary
• prelusive
• preparative
• preparatory
• primary

Examples of introductory in a Sentence

I'd like to make a few introductory remarks before we start the program.

a class in introductory physics

Recent Examples on the Web

The New Destination of Joy Concepts from introductory psychology textbooks took on a new, hands-on dimension in our rodent driving laboratory. —Kelly Lambert, Discover Magazine, 14 Nov. 2024

An introductory episode to the families follows up with episodes that relate to each family’s drama. —Randy Myers, The Mercury News, 13 Nov. 2024

Examples of courses that fall into this category include basic math, English, and introductory psychology. —Bruno V. Manno, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

At the Madison Square Garden rally in New York last month, Trump surrogate Vivek Ramaswamy said during his introductory remarks that the Empire State was a 2024 swing state, a projection that Democrats aren't buying. —David Jackson, USA TODAY, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

introductory

adjective

in·​tro·​duc·​to·​ry ˌin-trə-ˈdək-t(ə-)rē 

: serving to introduce

introductorily

-t(ə-)rə-lē 

adverb