initial

Definition

Chronologically first, early; of or pertaining to the beginning, cause or origin.

Etymology

From Middle French initial or directly from its Latin etymon initiālis (“of the beginning, incipient, initial”), from initium (“a going in, entrance, beginning”), from inire (“to go in, enter upon, begin”), from in (“in”) + ire (“to go”).

Example Sentences

• "Our initial admiration for their efficiency gave way to disgust about their methods."
• "The initial stages of a syndrome may differ vastly from the final symptoms."
• "Meanwhile Nanny Broome was recovering from her initial panic and seemed anxious to make up for any kudos she might have lost, by exerting her personality to the utmost. She took the policeman's helmet and placed it on a chair, and unfolded his tunic to shake it and fold it up again for him."

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