introductory

adjective

in·​tro·​duc·​to·​ry ˌin-trə-ˈdək-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce introductory (audio)
Synonyms of introductorynext
: 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 How to pronounce introductory (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of introductory

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The basic model of competitive markets which one finds in an introductory economics textbook—where independent firms engage in cold arm’s-length transactions motivated by unadulterated self-interest—does not apply to the industry. — Gideon Lewis-Kraus, New Yorker, 19 Oct. 2026 JetBlue is offering some introductory fares for BlueFirst seats for select flights, including a $299 flight from Boston to Fort Lauderdale, a $249 option from New York to Fort Lauderdale and a $299 option from New York to Liberia, Costa Rica. — Maggie Roth, CNBC, 15 Oct. 2026 At Reese’s introductory press conference, no one shied away from the goal of making the WNBA Finals. — Rod Beard, AJC.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Naturally, the sedan won’t see any significant changes, though all-wheel drive will no longer be offered on the introductory SV trim, while pricing across the board will hike by $210. — Adam Ismail, The Drive, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for introductory

Word History

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of introductory was in 1605

Browse Nearby Words

introductoriness
introductory
introflex
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Introductory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/introductory. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

introductory

adjective
in·​tro·​duc·​to·​ry ˌin-trə-ˈdək-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce introductory (audio)
: serving to introduce
introductorily
-t(ə-)rə-lē How to pronounce introductory (audio)
adverb
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