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 of introductory

• preliminary
• preparatory

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

This card offers one of the longest introductory APR periods for purchases and qualifying balance transfers. — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 10 July 2026

Early last year, El-Sayed travelled to Washington for introductory meetings with various pillars of the Democratic establishment. — Jason Zengerle, New Yorker, 10 July 2026

Weist herself appears in a brief introductory clip before the performance proper. — Rhoda Feng, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026

The Heat is expected to hold Antetokounmpo’s introductory press conference on July 16. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 7 July 2026

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