primal

adjective

pri·​mal ˈprī-məl How to pronounce primal (audio)
1
: original, primitive
village life continued in its primal innocenceVan Wyck Brooks
2
: first in importance : primary

Examples of primal in a Sentence

the primal theme of the essay is toleration of religious diversity there was a period of primal idealism after the founding of the republic and before the rise of partisan politics
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The answer lies somewhere within our psychology, our appetite for entertainment, and the primal thrill of surviving our inner boogeyman. Isabel Rosales, CNN Money, 25 Oct. 2025 The book is about primal insecurities and relatable fears, explored through the lens of classic horror tropes. Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 23 Oct. 2025 Vyaghra is a tiger embodying power, stealth and protection, while Nakra is a crocodile evoking strength, adaptability and primal force. Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2025 Before Mariners pitcher Bryan Woo could answer a reporter's question, a primal scream was heard in the back of the room. Natasha Dye, PEOPLE, 21 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for primal

Word History

Etymology

probably from prime entry 1 + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of primal was in 1604

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Primal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/primal. Accessed 1 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

primal

adjective
pri·​mal ˈprī-məl How to pronounce primal (audio)
1
: of or relating to the first period or state : primitive
2
: first in importance : basic
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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