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 Attendance matters, from elementary to high school In the Ashwaubenon School District near Green Bay, solving attendance problems comes from routine, attention and persistence. Nadia Scharf, Journal Sentinel, 23 Oct. 2024 Des Moines Public Schools is considering whether to move sixth graders from middle to elementary buildings, potentially helping the district maximize space but leading to some school closures, board chairperson Jackie Norris tells Axios. Jason Clayworth, Axios, 18 Oct. 2024 Taylor holds a bachelor of science in elementary education from Ball State University, a master's in school administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a doctoral degree in executive educational leadership from Indiana University's Bloomington campus. Caroline Beck, The Indianapolis Star, 16 Oct. 2024 The musicians range from elementary kids to high schoolers. Madeline Mitchell, The Enquirer, 15 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for elementary 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'elementary.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near elementary

Cite this Entry

“Elementary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elementary. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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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