elementary

adjective

el·​e·​men·​ta·​ry ˌe-lə-ˈmen-tə-rē 

-ˈmen-trē

1

a

: of, relating to, or dealing with the simplest elements or principles of something

b

: of or relating to an elementary school

2

: elemental sense 1a

3

: elemental sense 2

elementarily

ˌe-lə-ˌmen-ˈter-ə-lē 

-ˈmen-trə-lē

adverb

elementariness

ˌe-lə-ˈmen-tə-rē-nəs 

-ˈmen-trē-

noun

Synonyms

• abecedarian
• basal
• basic
• beginning
• elemental
• essential
• fundamental
• introductory
• meat-and-potatoes
• rudimental
• rudimentary
• underlying

Examples of elementary in a Sentence

He is lacking even the most elementary notions of fairness.

The researchers made an elementary error.

He has an elementary understanding of calculus.

Recent Examples on the Web

But elementary students might catch a glimpse of the news coverage or hear classmates talking about it. —Tamekia Reece, Parents, 8 Jan. 2025

Most of the whooping cough cases in the Boise School District have been in its elementary and high schools, Hollar said. —Angela Palermo, Idaho Statesman, 7 Jan. 2025

Since 2018, the Orange Bowl Media Center Makeover Project has helped modernize media centers at elementary and middle schools throughout the area. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 7 Jan. 2025

The tutoring program pairs seniors with elementary students at various Title 1 campuses and the digital divide program is designed to help seniors learn how to use technology. —Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing elementary

• elementary charge
• elementary particle
• elementary school

Kids Definition

elementary

adjective

el·​e·​men·​ta·​ry ˌel-ə-ˈment-ə-rē 

-ˈmen-trē

1

: of or relating to the simplest principles of a subject

2

: of, relating to, or teaching the basic subjects of education