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

Snail Mucin When K-beauty broke into the US market in 2016, snail mucin was the introductory ingredient that got everyone hooked. — Audrey Noble, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2026

The only player who got a shoutout from defensive coordinator Dennis Allen in his introductory news conference a year and a half ago, Gordon’s health has been more of a talking point than his play on the field. — Kevin Fishbain, New York Times, 28 July 2026

The clinic offers an introductory 0% APR for six months, allowing John to split the cost into monthly payments. — Dawn Papandrea, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026

This is primarily because banks reserve offers for lower-risk borrowers, since banks aren’t earning interest on those balances during the introductory period. — Ryley Amond, CNBC, 24 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