Definitions

elementary

[el-uh-men-tuh-ree, -tree] / ˌɛl əˈmɛn tə ri, -tri /

ADJECTIVE

simple, basic

Synonyms

STRONGEST

elemental fundamental rudimentary straightforward underlying

WEAK

ABCs abecedarian basal beginning child's play clear duck soup easy essential facile foundational initial introductory meat and potatoes original plain prefatory preliminary primary primitive primo simplest simplex simplified substratal uncomplex uncomplicated

Antonyms

STRONGEST

additional advanced extra secondary

WEAK

abstruse complex complicated compound difficult hard intricate involved

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Coldplay will feature in a collaboration with PS22 Chorus, an acclaimed choir of students from a New York public elementary school.

From Barron's • Jul. 8, 2026

This energy scale is closely associated with the Higgs field, which is responsible for giving elementary particles their mass.

From Science Daily • Jul. 5, 2026

Most attendees are elementary school children, some required to be there.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 1, 2026

“There is no study out there that I have found that says this is an effective way of disciplining elementary school students,” London said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 18, 2026

“He failed a grade or two in elementary school,” said Camilla.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

Vocabulary lists containing elementary

Animal Farm

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Essential English Vocabulary, List 1

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

'Tis A Gift To Be Simple: Words For National Simplicity Day

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!