introduction

noun

in·​tro·​duc·​tion ˌin-trə-ˈdək-shən 

1

: something that introduces: such as

a(1)

: a part of a book or treatise preliminary to the main portion

(2)

: a preliminary treatise or course of study

b

: a short introductory musical passage

2

: the act or process of introducing : the state of being introduced

3

: a putting in : insertion

4

: something introduced

specifically : a new or exotic plant or animal

Synonyms

• preface
• foreword
• intro

Examples of introduction in a Sentence

the introduction of telephone service to the area

Since its introduction last year, over a million copies of the software have been sold.

the introduction of evidence at the trial

the introduction of a new topic for conversation

the introduction of the bill to Congress

She told the audience, by way of introduction, that the research was completed a year ago.

the introduction of an Asian plant species to America

After a brief introduction, the performer took the stage.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Kananaskis River features Class 2 and 3 rapids, which are the perfect introduction for rafting newbies or families. —Lisa Kadane, Travel + Leisure, 2 Nov. 2025

And last month in time for Climate Week NYC, the brand added to its collaboration with Unless for the introduction of three new regenerative sneaker styles. —Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 31 Oct. 2025

With some thoughtful preparation, patience, and understanding of feline behavior, owners can make introductions smoother and help build a lasting bond that makes life with two cats truly rewarding. —Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2025

As pupfish settled into their new home right away, establishing territory and chasing each other in circles, the biologists are already planning for future introductions. —John Leos, AZCentral.com, 30 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English introduccioun act of introducing, from Anglo-French introduction, from Latin introduction-, introductio, from introducere

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for introduction

• coproduction
• deconstruction
• liposuction
• misconstruction
• postproduction
• preconstruction
• preproduction
• reconstruction
• reproduction
• abduction
• adduction
• conduction

Kids Definition

introduction

noun

in·​tro·​duc·​tion ˌin-trə-ˈdək-shən 

1

a

: the action of introducing

b

: something introduced

2

: the part of a book that leads up to and explains what will be found in the main part

3

: a book for beginners in a subject

Medical Definition

introduction

noun

in·​tro·​duc·​tion ˌin-trə-ˈdək-shən 

: an action of putting in or inserting

introduction of contrast material through the catheter

—Scientific American Medicine

introduce

-ˈd(y)üs 

transitive verb

introduced; introducing