initial
UK: ɪˈnɪʃəl | US: ɪˈnɪʃəl
adj. existing or occurring at the beginning
n. the first letter of a name or word
vt. to mark or sign with initials
The word "initial" originates from the Latin initialis, derived from initium (beginning), which combines in- (into) + ire (to go). The morpheme it reflects the root meaning "to go," suggesting movement into a starting point. Over time, initialis evolved into Old French initial, retaining the sense of "first" or "beginning," and entered English in the 14th century. The logic ties progression (going into) to the concept of a starting point.
The initial stage of the project requires careful planning.
She wrote her initials on the contract.
The artist initialed each sketch in the corner.
His initial reaction was one of surprise.
The initial letter of the alphabet is "A."