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

Housed in a decommissioned subway station in downtown Brooklyn, the museum was packed with elementary-school children on a field trip. —Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 31 Dec. 2025

The Frostys, a charity group made up of local elementary and middle school students, perfomed The National Anthem at Petco Park. —Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Dec. 2025

No recess is the elementary-school equivalent of solitary confinement. —David Owen, New Yorker, 22 Dec. 2025

The initiative, co-championed by home improvement retailer Lowe’s, entails working with elementary, middle and high schools to raise awareness. —Anne D'innocenzio, Fortune, 21 Dec. 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