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

Jones and Feliciano won their introductory press conference Monday, creating a level of engagement and connection that topped even the public introductions of Moores and Lucchino in 1995 and the Seidler-Ron Fowler group in 2012. — Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026

WYouth magazine’s Ava Nirui, a friend of the designer, conducted the in-book interview with Liang, and actress and close friend Greta Lee penned the introductory letter. — Alexandra Hildreth, Vogue, 20 Aug. 2026

The Hubs will be responsible for curating and delivering introductory courses designed to provide young people with an overview of the film industry with a focus on below-the-line production roles, screen heritage, exhibition and distribution. — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 20 Aug. 2026

Rebecca Nesson, who teaches a large introductory computer science class, used the spring final exam and other assignments to think about grading under the new policy. — Tribune News Service, Baltimore Sun, 19 Aug. 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