introductory
Americanadjective
adjective
Synonym Usage
See preliminary.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of introductory
First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Late Latin intrōductōrius, equivalent to Latin intrōduc-, variant stem of intrōdūcere ( see introduce) + -tōrius -tory 1
Explanation
Something introductory prefaces or explains what comes after it. An introductory paragraph at the start of your essay will sum up the ideas you plan to discuss. Introductory remarks before a speech will give some basic information about the speaker or her topic, and an introductory scene in a movie sets up the characters, time period, or setting so the story makes sense. This 17th century adjective is from the Latin word introductorius, from introducere, "to lead in," with its roots intro-, "inward," and ducere, "to lead."
Vocabulary lists containing introductory
Lessons 1–2
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Writing - High School
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Purpose
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Some took out adjustable-rate mortgages, figuring that when the rate on the loan reset after an introductory period, it would be at a lower level.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 22, 2026
In his introductory video message, Van der Werff said his goal is to carry on the airline’s strategic growth plan, and to improve the company’s performance on behalf of customers, employees and shareholders.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 8, 2026
During his introductory news conference Saturday, John Mozeliak didn’t rule out becoming the new general manager, and will work with team president Molly Jolly on the best plan.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 6, 2026
Some pharmacies have limited-time introductory offers, where the first few doses are sold at a relatively low price.
From BBC ● Jul. 6, 2026
And since our introductory offer to E Motions would expire next Thursday, that basically meant karate was over for me.
From "Maybe He Just Likes You" by Barbara Dee
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
