preparatory

adjective

pre·​pa·​ra·​to·​ry pri-ˈper-ə-ˌtȯr-ē 

 also  ˈpre-p(ə-)rə-,

pri-ˈpa-rə- 

: preparing or serving to prepare for something : introductory

preparatorily

pri-ˌper-ə-ˈtȯr-ə-lē 

 also  ˌpre-p(ə-)rə-

pri-ˌpa-rə-

adverb

Synonyms

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

Examples of preparatory in a Sentence

There is a lot of preparatory work involved in teaching.

a preparatory investigation to see if there is enough evidence to warrant bringing charges

Recent Examples on the Web

The run-up to the conference over the course of this year, including a preparatory meeting in April, is certain to become a focal point for global debate on what should be done to increase biosecurity and biosafety. —Nathan Levine, Foreign Affairs, 16 Mar. 2021

That is no small task, even with modern tools, glues, protective wrapping, and preparatory techniques. —Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 25 June 2024

The exhibition instead relies on his preparatory drawings, and a projection of the fresco. —The Week Uk, theweek, 17 May 2024

Artworks are presented alongside preparatory drawings and sketches, while screens present the before and after of the restoration process. —Lindsey Tramuta, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Latin praeparātōrius, from praeparāre "to prepare" + -tōrius, deverbal adjective suffix, originally in derivatives from agent nouns ending in -tōr-, -tor

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing preparatory

• preparatory school
• preparatory to

Kids Definition

preparatory

adjective

pre·​pa·​ra·​to·​ry pri-ˈpar-ə-ˌtōr-ē  -ˌtȯr- 

: preparing or serving to prepare for something : introductory