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
Synonyms
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
Silver Shores Elementary, which is at 44.6%, will be a full choice (any parent can apply there) elementary and middle school.
—
David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 12 May 2024
In the northeast Bronx, elementary and middle school students build and race soapbox cars as part of their science curriculum.
—Bernard Mokam Gabriela Bhaskar, New York Times, 11 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for elementary 
David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 12 May 2024
In the northeast Bronx, elementary and middle school students build and race soapbox cars as part of their science curriculum.
—Bernard Mokam Gabriela Bhaskar, New York Times, 11 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for elementary
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'elementary.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near elementary
Cite this Entry
“Elementary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elementary. Accessed 21 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids 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
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