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.
By starting early with high school and even elementary education, institutions can introduce students to the importance of natural resources and the role of mining in the energy transition. Ed MacHa, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025 Breakfasts will cost $1.50 for elementary students and $1.75 for intermediate and high school students. Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 15 July 2025 Overall, 41 kids and adults were arrested and accused of making violent threats against 42 elementary, middle and high schools in the Metro Nashville Public Schools system this past school year, according to police data. Kelly Puente, The Tennessean, 14 July 2025 An investigation into the death of elementary student Benedict Blythe on December 21, 2021 found that the boy, who had an allergy to milk, eggs, kiwi, and nuts, had been exposed to cow protein at Barnack Primary School in the English town of Stamford, per the BBC. Cara Lynn Shultz, People.com, 9 July 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 24 Jul. 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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