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Definition of preparatory - 2 dictionary results

pre⋅par⋅a⋅to⋅ry

  [pri-par-uh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee, -pair-, prep-er-uh-]
Use preparatory in a Sentence
–adjective
1. serving or designed to prepare: preparatory arrangements.
2. preliminary; introductory: preparatory remarks.
3. of or pertaining to training that prepares for more advanced education.
—Idiom
4. preparatory to, in advance of; before: The astronauts met with the press preparatory to lifting off.
Origin:
1375–1425; late ME < ML praeparātōrius. See prepare, -tory 1

Related forms:
pre⋅par⋅a⋅to⋅ri⋅ly, adverb
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To preparatory
pre·par·a·to·ry   (prĭ-pār'ə-tôr'ē, -tōr'ē, -pâr'-, prěp'ər-ə-)   
adj.  

  1. Serving to make ready or prepare; introductory. See Synonyms at preliminary.

  2. Relating to or engaged in study or training that serves as preparation for advanced education: a preparatory course; preparatory students.

adv.  In preparation for. Used with to: thoroughly cleaned the house preparatory to our departure.
pre·par'a·to'ri·ly adv.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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