Main Entry: ³prime

Function: verb

Inflected Form(s): primed; prim·ing

Etymology: probably from ¹prime

Date: 1513

transitive verb 1 : fill, load
2 a : to prepare for firing by supplying with priming b : to insert a primer into (a cartridge case)
3 : to apply the first color, coating, or preparation to <prime a wall>
4 a : to put into working order by filling or charging with something <prime a pump with water> b : to supply with an essential prerequisite (as a hormone, nucleic acid, or antigen) for chemical or biological activity <primed female mice with estrogen>
5 : to instruct beforehand : coach <primed the witness>
6 : stimulateintransitive verb : to become prime

— prime the pump : to take steps to encourage the growth or functioning of something