elementary

adjective

el·​e·​men·​ta·​ry ˌe-lə-ˈmen-tə-rē How to pronounce elementary (audio)
-ˈmen-trē
Synonyms of elementarynext
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 How to pronounce elementary (audio)
-ˈmen-trə-lē
adverb
elementariness
ˌe-lə-ˈmen-tə-rē-nəs How to pronounce elementary (audio)
-ˈmen-trē-
noun

Synonyms of elementary

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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.
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Research from a Texas Christian University professor shows elementary students who get an hour of outdoor play daily perform better in the classroom. — Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Oct. 2026 Telra Institute, a public charter school in Charlotte, also ranked in the top 20 among local elementary and middle schools. — Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 20 Oct. 2026 In Spain, elementary and secondary schoolteachers began an indefinite strike in Madrid last week to demand better pay and working conditions. — Teresa Medrano, Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2026 Now, another shooting within the walls of a school has taken the lives of three elementary students and a teacher. — Lisa Milbrand, Parents, 16 Oct. 2026 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

Phrases Containing elementary

Rhymes for elementary

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Browse Nearby Words

elementariness
elementary
elementary algebra
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Cite this Entry

“Elementary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elementary. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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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
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