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
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
During discussions about elementary and middle school social studies curriculum, board members made addendums, including education about the horrors of communism, why the Second Amendment was created and how counterculture increased the rate of divorce.
—
Rachel Royster,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
27 June 2026
The measure includes a list of texts that would be required reading during each grade level in all the state's public schools, and includes Bible stories and verses in grades ranging from elementary to high school.
—
Jeanine Santucci,
USA Today,
26 June 2026
For example, the Douglas County School District maintains a bell-to-bell ban for elementary and middle school students.
—
Krista Kafer,
Denver Post,
24 June 2026
The missive cites a slew of studies suggesting that AI software such as ChatGPT may atrophy critical thinking skills and creativity during the crucial developmental years of elementary and high school.
—
Tessa Solomon,
ARTnews.com,
24 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for elementary
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Rachel Royster,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
27 June 2026
The measure includes a list of texts that would be required reading during each grade level in all the state's public schools, and includes Bible stories and verses in grades ranging from elementary to high school.
—
Jeanine Santucci,
USA Today,
26 June 2026
For example, the Douglas County School District maintains a bell-to-bell ban for elementary and middle school students.
—
Krista Kafer,
Denver Post,
24 June 2026
The missive cites a slew of studies suggesting that AI software such as ChatGPT may atrophy critical thinking skills and creativity during the crucial developmental years of elementary and high school.
—
Tessa Solomon,
ARTnews.com,
24 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for elementary
Cite this Entry
“Elementary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elementary. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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