elementary

adjective

el·​e·​men·​ta·​ry ˌe-lə-ˈmen-tə-rē How to pronounce elementary (audio)
-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
3
elementarily adverb
elementariness noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That really elementary approach to writing is one of my favorite things. Kyle Denis, Billboard, 23 Apr. 2025 There are no plans to increase the student-teacher ratio at elementary and intermediate schools. Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Apr. 2025 Both centers are quite close to elementary and middle schools and experts and organizations alike have shown these projects will permanently harm the environment, culture and history here. Nicholas W. Stuller, Hartford Courant, 15 Apr. 2025 Membership surveys have shown that many members of the AMS developed a passion for weather in elementary or middle school. Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 12 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for elementary

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of elementary was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Elementary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elementary. Accessed 1 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

elementary

adjective
el·​e·​men·​ta·​ry ˌel-ə-ˈment-ə-rē How to pronounce elementary (audio)
-ˈmen-trē
1
: of or relating to the simplest principles of a subject
2
: of, relating to, or teaching the basic subjects of education

More from Merriam-Webster on elementary

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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