initial: Meaning and Definition of

in•i•tial

1. of, pertaining to, or occurring at the beginning; first: the initial step in a process.
2. occurring at the beginning of a word or syllable, as the (k) sound of kite, chasm, or quay.

1. an initial letter, as of a word.
2. the first letter of a proper name.
3. a letter of extra size or an ornamental character used at the beginning of a chapter or other division of a book, manuscript, or the like.

1. to mark or sign with an initial or the initials of one's name, esp. as a token of preliminary or informal approval.