What does "initiatory" mean?

Initiatory: Tending or serving to initiate; introducing by instruction, or by the use and application of symbols or ceremonies; elementary; rudimentary. Some initiatory treatises in the law. Herbert. Two initiatory rites of the same general import can not exist together. J. M. Mason.

Additional senses

  1. 2.An introductory act or rite. [R.]

Sources