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

• basic
• rudimentary
• introductory
• fundamental

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

The top public schools in California include elementary, middle and high schools in the Bay Area, San Diego and Los Angeles, according to Niche. —Angela Rodriguez, Sacbee.com, 15 Oct. 2025

According to court documents, six elementary-aged students came forward with allegations against Riscovallez. —Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 10 Oct. 2025

Grapevine-Colleyville school board president Shannon Braun said the district will close elementary campuses, but no decisions have been made on how many will be on the chopping block. —Elizabeth Campbell, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Oct. 2025

Closing several elementary schools Known as Option E, this proposal would close, repurpose or sell Hawthorne Elementary School and the Whittier building, which houses the district's STEM elementary program. —Alec Johnson, jsonline.com, 10 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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

Phrases Containing elementary

• elementary charge
• elementary particle
• elementary school

Rhymes for elementary

• complementary
• entry
• gentry
• sentry

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