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

Even when the weights and every elementary computation are available for inspection, no one can readily understand how the models produce a particular answer. — Ambuj Tewari, The Conversation, 29 Sep. 2026

This school year, Mayor Mamdani paused the use of AI for elementary and middle school students, and provided grade-appropriate bans or guidance on screen time. — Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 25 Sep. 2026

Allow me, before dealing with twentieth-century science, to dwell upon one more elementary fact. — Literary Hub, 21 Sep. 2026

Potter also requested the district create a public list of every app and platform authorized for elementary classrooms, and what data each collects on users. — Jenna Ebbers, Kansas City Star, 17 Sep. 2026

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