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.
Northwestern women’s basketball coach Carla Berube speaks during an introductory news conference March 31, 2026, at Welsh-Ryan Arena in Evanston. — Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 30 Oct. 2026 In keeping with the exclusive nature of that introductory run of Lost Weekend shows, a new EP culled from the latter set, Live at Madison Square Garden, is out now as a Tidal exclusive. — Alex Suskind, Pitchfork, 29 Oct. 2026 But for many of them, the NFL introductory moment that most resonates happened well after that, and generally produced far better stories to tell their friends and perhaps eventually, their children. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 29 Oct. 2026 In an introductory video, executives said Goldfarb built a $3 billion business by displaying stamina, tenacity, quick-wittedness, nimbleness and always a healthy dose of creativity. — Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 28 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 1 Nov. 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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