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 of elementary

• 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 all-inclusive resort also has an extensive activities program and kids programming for babies and toddlers, elementary schoolers, and teens. —Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 4 Nov. 2025

Basically, loop quantum gravity implies that space is not infinitely divisible — it’s made of elementary chunks, which are linked together into loops. —Zack Savitsky, Quanta Magazine, 29 Oct. 2025

These elementary-schoolers aren’t likely voters. —Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 29 Oct. 2025

Alternatively, Dorfman’s two children attend elementary and middle school in a very affluent school district where the average suggested donation per child is more than $750, with active foundations fundraising for enrichment classes, sports programs and modern facilities. —Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 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