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

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools saw improvement in elementary math scores in 2024, but otherwise remained relatively stagnant, according to new data released Wednesday. —Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 29 Jan. 2025

Florida, long a leader in elementary reading, continued to do better than most states at fourth-grade reading, even as its scores dropped from 2022 and from the pre-pandemic high in 2017. —Steven Walker, Orlando Sentinel, 29 Jan. 2025

Even an elementary digital project will demonstrate hands-on experience with digital tools and creative engagement with issues in the field. —Christopher Rim, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025

The latest Metro news Image School closings: An elementary schoolteacher in Montclair, N.J., was arrested after making a threat against a principal that prompted officials to close the schools. —James Barron, New York Times, 14 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