Etymology

Adjective

1. Chronologically first, early; of or pertaining to the beginning, cause or origin

   Our initial admiration for their efficiency gave way to disgust about their methods

   The initial stages of a syndrome may differ vastly from the final symptoms

2. Spatially first, placed at the beginning, in the first position; especially said of the first letter of a word

Noun

1. The first letter of a word or a name.
2. In plural, the first letter of each word of a person's full name considered as a unit

   You can get your initials printed at the top.

3. A distinguished initial letter of a chapter or section of a document.

Verb

1. To sign one's initial(s), as an abbreviated signature.

   Please initial each page and sign the contract in full at the bottom.