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

One of the fastest-growing districts in the state, Leander ISD operates dozens of elementary, middle and high schools. —Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Aug. 2025

There are indications that students who had to attend school at the elementary and high school level were noticeably behind where other students would have been at that same point in their education. —Sixteen Ramos, USA Today, 11 Aug. 2025

The current elementary enrollment is only around 3,000, though. —Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Aug. 2025

The deputy secretary aids the secretary in the development of policies and programs related to elementary and secondary education. —Ally Goelz, The Washington Examiner, 1 Aug. 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