primal

adjective

pri·​mal ˈprī-məl 

1

: original, primitive

… village life continued in its primal innocence.

—Van Wyck Brooks

2

: first in importance : primary

Synonyms of primal

• main
• greatest
• primary
• highest
• predominant
• dominant
• foremost
• big
• first
• central

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

Model/Actriz’s songs reference Lady Gaga in one moment, then emit a primal scream the next. —Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 21 Apr. 2026

This ultra-reflective look has a molten, resin-like finish that’s elevated by a primal tortoiseshell print. —Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 13 Apr. 2026

The album was recorded with producer and engineer Brad Wood (Liz Phair, Sunny Day Real Estate) in a studio in rural Washington that allowed the duo to soak up the forest, incorporating this primal vibe into the new material. —David Harris, SPIN, 7 Apr. 2026

The theology in such conflicts usually masks more primal power struggles and still tends to make the wars and warriors more fanatical and bloodthirsty. —Andreas Kluth, Twin Cities, 3 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

probably from prime entry 1 + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing primal

• primal scream therapy

Rhymes for primal

• thymol
• ependymal
• mesenchymal
• lachrymal
• lacrimal

Kids Definition

primal

adjective

pri·​mal ˈprī-məl 

1

: of or relating to the first period or state : primitive

2

: first in importance : basic