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 movement to ban or severely restrict screen time learning for elementary-age students comes as nearly 40 states have passed legislation to prohibit or restrict cellphone use in schools, including California, which passed a law that will take effect in July. —Kate Sequeira, Los Angeles Times, 19 Mar. 2026

The Kansas branch of the National Education Association opposed legislation prohibiting elementary students from using computers or tablets at all. —Tyler Kingkade, NBC news, 19 Mar. 2026

At one point during his elementary years, Chopra said his family of five resided in a one-room home. —Claire Murphy, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026

The first error in the poll was including elementary and middle school parents that already start later. —Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 Mar. 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