elementary

1 of 2

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

elementariness

2 of 2

noun

el·​e·​men·​ta·​ri·​ness ˌeləˈmentərēnə̇s 

-n‧trē-, 

-rin-

plural -es

: the quality or state of being elementary

Synonyms of elementary

Adjective

• basic
• rudimentary
• introductory
• fundamental

Examples of elementary in a Sentence

Adjective

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

Adjective

In elementary classrooms, students may choose research topics, plan their work, manage assignments, and take increasing responsibility for deadlines and long-term projects. — Jose Bolaños, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026

The Homer-Center School District has delayed the start of the 2026-27 school year after mold was discovered in some elementary classrooms, school officials announced on Saturday. — Garrett Behanna, CBS News, 23 Aug. 2026

The district set its screen time use targets for elementary and middle school students, but did not set a target for high school students, noting the importance of digital literacy skills as students prepare for college or careers. — Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 21 Aug. 2026

Stars such as Diane Kruger, Mario Lopez and Brittany Aldean are sending their young ones off to elementary and middle school. — Stephanie Sengwe, PEOPLE, 21 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

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