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introduction

n.
US //ˌɪntɹəˈdəkʃən// UK //ˌɪntɹədˈʌkʃən// in·tro·duc·tion
  1. 1 meeting people (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the act of telling two people each other's names so they can meet.

    the formal act of presenting one person to another or to a group.

    Example

    After a quick introduction, the two neighbors realized they grew up in the same town.

    Example

    The host made a formal introduction of the keynote speaker, highlighting her extensive research in renewable energy before she took the stage.
  2. 2 opening of a book or speech (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the first part of a book, article, or speech that explains what it is about.

    the preliminary section of a literary work or speech that establishes the context and purpose of the main text.

    Example

    The introduction of the book explains why the author decided to travel across Africa.

    Example

    In the introduction to his thesis, the candidate clearly outlined the methodology and the specific research questions he intended to address.
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  1. 3 bringing in something new (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the first time a new system, product, or idea is used or brought into a place.

    the act of bringing something into use or operation for the first time.

    Example

    The introduction of the new law caused a lot of debate in the city.

    Example

    The introduction of automated machinery significantly increased the factory's output but also necessitated a comprehensive retraining program for the staff.
  2. 4 basic explanation (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Academic

    a short book or course that teaches you the basic facts about a subject.

    a preliminary explanation or a basic treatment of a subject for beginners.

    Example

    I am taking a class that is an introduction to ancient history.

    Example

    This seminar provides a thorough introduction to quantum mechanics, assuming no prior knowledge of the mathematical frameworks involved.
Origin

From Middle English introduccioun, introduccyon, borrowed from Old French introduction, itself a borrowing from Latin intrōdūctiōnem, accusative of Latin intrōdūctiō, from intrōdūcō. By surface analysis, intro- + Latin dūctiō or introduce + -tion.

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