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

According to the lawsuit, the pledge was a regular occurrence in both the district's elementary and middle schools, while students in the high school did not participate in the ritual for two years. —Brittany Miller, FOXNews.com, 9 Apr. 2026

The district oversees elementary and middle schools serving Alsip, Blue Island, Crestwood and Robbins. —Addison Wright, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2026

The teen’s autistic brother inspired her to become an elementary educator. —Elizabeth Hernandez, Denver Post, 6 Apr. 2026

The high school drumline thrummed on their equipment, ending their performance to applause from the hundreds of elementary schoolers in the gym. —Noah Alcala Bach, San Antonio Express-News, 6 Apr. 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