Introduce

Part of speech: verb

Pronunciation: /ˌɪntɹəˈdʒuːs/

Definitions

1. To present someone to another person for the first time or to bring something new into use or consideration
2. To make someone known to another individual for the first time | To bring a new idea, product, or concept into awareness | To initiate a meeting between individuals or to showcase something unfamiliar in a particular context
3. To present a person to another for the first occasion | To unveil a novel product, concept, or practice to an audience | To facilitate an introduction between parties or to highlight something previously unknown

Etymology: The verb emerged in English during the late 16th century, borrowing from the Latin "introducere," which literally means "to lead in" or "to bring in." This Latin word is formed from the prefix "intro-" meaning "inward" and the verb "ducere," meaning "to lead." The original Latin sense carried the idea of physically leading someone or something into a place, a concrete action that naturally extended into more abstract uses. From its physical origins, the meaning evolved to include the act of bringing a person into a social setting or situation, such as introducing a guest to a host or a speaker to an audience. This figurative usage became well established in English, reflecting social customs and formalities that require someone to be presented or announced when entering a new environment. The progression from a literal leading in to a formal presentation captures a typical semantic shift where physical actions give rise to social rituals. By the 17th century, the verb also took on meanings related to initiating or starting something, such as introducing a new idea, law, or practice. This usage aligns with the notion of "bringing in" something new for consideration or use, broadening the verb’s application beyond people to concepts and objects. The versatility of the word reflects its Latin roots and the natural flexibility of the prefix "intro-" combined with "ducere." Pronounced today as /ˌɪntɹəˈdʒuːs/, the word retains its connection to "leading in," even though it now spans a wide spectrum of uses, from social introductions to the commencement of actions or innovations. Its journey from a straightforward Latin compound to a common English verb illustrates the layering of meaning that often accompanies long-term language contact and cultural change.

Synonyms: present, launch, initiate, unveil

Antonyms: withdraw, remove