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

Those moves were widely expected, as Geren was already referred to as the board’s president at an introductory news conference for new Superintendent Peter Licata on March 24. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 Apr. 2026

On Tuesday, Boston College held Murray's introductory press conference as the new head coach of the school, which his wife and children attended along with others. —Matthew Couden, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2026

This card offers one of the longest introductory APR periods for purchases and qualifying balance transfers. —Jasmin Suknanan, CNBC, 28 Mar. 2026

The introductory conversation went so well that, for the first time ever, the coach made an immediate offer to join the team. —Glae Thien, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Mar. 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