introduce

verb

in-truh-DOOS/ˌɪntɹəˈdus/UKin-truh-DYOOS/ˌɪntɹəˈdjuːs/

Formsintroduces, introducing, introduced

7 meanings of introduce

1
bring inverbtransitive
To bring a new method, rule, or custom into use for the first time.
Lawmakers want to introduce stricter limits on emissions.
The factory introduced automated assembly lines in the 1980s.
Similarimplement, establish, institute, launch, initiate
Oppositeabolish, discontinue, scrap
2
make acquaintedverbtransitive
To cause one person to become acquainted with another, usually by telling each one the other's name.
Could you introduce me to the host before dinner?
He introduced his fiancée to his parents over the weekend.
UsageIntroduce one person to another: introduce you to my sister (not ~~incorrect: introduce you my sister~~); saying your own name is introducing yourself.
Similarpresent, acquaint
3
present (to audience)verbtransitive
To make a person or thing known to an audience through a formal announcement or recommendation.
The chairman rose to introduce the evening's guest of honor.
Critics first introduced the young novelist to a wider public.
Similarpresent, announce
4
verbtransitive
To bring someone into contact with something for the first time, for example a pastime, a food, or a type of music.
It was her college roommate who introduced her to Indian cooking.
The program aims to introduce young children to classical music through free concerts.
UsageSomeone introduces you to a food or pastime: an uncle introduced me to fishing.
Similarexpose
5
verbtransitive
To add a substance or element into a system, mixture, or container.
Engineers introduce a tracer dye into the pipeline to detect leaks.
The technician introduced a sample of the compound into the chamber.
UsageUsually something is introduced into a system, mixture or container.
Similarinject, insert, add, put, infuse
Oppositeremove, extract
6
verbtransitive
To present a bill, motion, or other proposal formally to a legislature so that it can be taken up for consideration.
The senator intends to introduce legislation that would cap prescription drug prices.
The bill was introduced in the House last spring and has yet to reach a vote.
Similarpropose, present, submit
Oppositewithdraw
7
new subjectverbtransitive
To raise a topic so that it can be discussed, whether in conversation, in a speech, or in a piece of writing.
Midway through the meeting, the mayor introduced the question of how to pay for the new bridge.
It is often wise to introduce a sensitive subject gently, once everyone has relaxed.
Similarraise, broach, mention

Practice

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Origin

The word goes back to Latin intrōdūcō, whose parts trace in the end to Proto-Indo-European *h₁énteros ("inner, what is inside") and *dewk- ("to lead"). Old French made it introduire, and Middle English introducen.