plural primates
1
: any member of the group of animals that includes human beings, apes, and monkeys
2
or Primate formal
: the highest ranking priest in a particular country or area in some Christian churches (such as the Church of England)
the Primate of England and Wales
Cite this Entry
“Primate.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/primate. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
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