preparatory

From Middle English preparatori, from Late Latin praeparatorius. By surface analysis, prepare +‎ -atory.

• (General American) IPA^(key): /ˈpɹɛp(ə)ɹətɔɹi/, /-ˈpɛɹ-/, /-ˈpæɹ-/
• (Received Pronunciation) IPA^(key): /ˈpɹɛp(ə)ɹət(ə)ɹi/, /-ˈpæɹ-/, /-ˈpɛəɹ-/

• Audio (UK)

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preparatory (not comparable)

1. Of or pertaining to preparation, having the purpose of making something or someone ready, preparative.

   I will conduct some preparatory research before choosing the new restaurant's location.

   • 1934, Henry G. Lamond, An Aviary On The Plains, page 47:

     A butcher bird has stirred, tuned its flute with a few preparatory notes.