Initial

Definition

Initial is an adjective, noun, and verb. As an adjective, it means "occurring at the beginning." As a noun, it refers to the first letter of a name or word. As a verb, it means to sign or mark something with one's initials.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈnɪʃəl/
• Respelling: ih-NISH-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈnɪʃəl/
• Respelling: ih-NISH-uhl

Etymology

The word "initial" originates from the Latin "initialis," meaning "pertaining to a beginning," derived from "initium" (beginning) and "initiare" (to begin). It entered Middle English through Old French "initial," retaining its meaning of "first" or "beginning."

Derivatives

• Initially (adverb)
• Initialization (noun)
• Reinitialize (verb)
• Initialism (noun)
• Initializer (noun)

Synonyms

• Beginning
• First
• Preliminary

Antonyms

• Final
• Last
• Concluding

Usage

The term "initial" is commonly used in academic, personal, and professional contexts. For example, "Her initial reaction was one of surprise," or "Please write your initials on the dotted line."

Related Terms

• Prefix: A word or letter placed at the beginning of another.
• Introductory: Pertaining to the beginning of something.
• Commence: To begin or start.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Occurring at the beginning: Refers to something that happens first or initially.
  • Example: "Her initial idea formed the basis of the project."

Noun

• The first letter of a name or word: Refers to an abbreviated form or symbol.
  • Example: "She signed the form with her initials."

Verb

• To mark or sign with one’s initials: Refers to the act of initialing a document.
  • Example: "Please initial each page of the contract."