Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for preparatory.
Definitions

preparatory

[pri-par-uh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee, -pair-, prep-er-uh-] / prɪˈpær əˌtɔr i, -ˌtoʊr i, -ˈpɛər-, ˈprɛp ər ə- /
ADJECTIVE
introductory, basic
Synonyms
STRONGEST
preliminary previous
WEAK
before elementary in advance of in anticipation of inductive opening precautionary prefatory prelusive prep preparative primary prior to
Antonyms
WEAK
auxiliary supplementary

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.

By placing them side by side with his preparatory drawings, visitors can better understand Raphael's creative process.

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

Nkanu Adichie-Esege, one of twins, died on 7 January after complications arose during preparatory medical procedures at Euracare Hospital in Lagos.

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2026

That’s in part because it decided to experiment with age-verification steps in Australia long before it received the government’s letter, as a preparatory step.

From Slate • Feb. 11, 2026

Christie’s will test Michelangelo’s draftsmanship by offering up his estimated $1.5 million preparatory drawing of a foot with ties to the Sistine Chapel on Thursday.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 4, 2026

Strolling leisurely around the bank of the Abbey pond, the two companions gathered up the nets preparatory to spreading them upon the water.

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques

Vocabulary lists containing preparatory

Florida's B.E.S.T. Common Prefixes: pre-

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!