primer

¹ American  

[prim-er, prahy-mer] / ˈprɪm ər, ˈpraɪ mər /

noun

1. an elementary book for teaching children to read.

2. any book of elementary principles.

   a primer of phonetics.

3. great primer.

4. long primer.

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primer ² American  

[prahy-mer] / ˈpraɪ mər /

noun

1. a person or thing that primes.

2. a cap, cylinder, etc., containing a compound that may be exploded by percussion or other means, used for firing a charge of powder.

3. a first coat or layer of paint, size, etc., given to any surface as a base, sealer, or the like.

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primer ¹ British  

/ ˈpraɪmə /

noun

1. a person or thing that primes

2. a device, such as a tube containing explosive, for detonating the main charge in a gun, mine, etc

3. a substance, such as paint, applied to a surface as a base, sealer, etc

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primer ² British  

/ ˈpraɪmə /

noun

1. an introductory text, such as a school textbook

2. printing See long primer great primer

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Etymology

Origin of primer¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Medieval Latin prīmārium, noun use of neuter of prīmārius primary

Origin of primer²

1490–1500; prime (v.) + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Now, some 70 years later, almost half the Bruins roster needed a primer on what it means to play the Trojans.

From Los Angeles Times

It works both as a primer for newcomers and a horn of plenty for fans.

From Los Angeles Times

In 1887, he created one of the earliest written sales primers for staff to memorize.

From The Wall Street Journal

Here’s a primer on how Sasaki found his hype track, and how it’s become the breakout hit of L.A. this fall.

From Los Angeles Times

Each round is about 2 feet long and consists of a detonating fuse, projectile, propellant and primer.

From Los Angeles Times