elementary school

American  

noun

1. the lowest school giving formal instruction, teaching the rudiments of learning, and extending usually from six to eight years.

---

elementary school British  

noun

1. a former name for primary school

2. Also called (in the US): grade school.   grammar school.  a state school in which instruction is given for the first six to eight years of a child's education

---

Etymology

Origin of elementary school

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

At least four states — Kansas, Utah, Minnesota and Tennessee — are considering prohibiting devices in at least part of elementary school.

From Los Angeles Times

The elementary school was only a block and a half away, it was true, and Nollie had gone there two years without difficulty.

From Literature

In "Weapons," an original story that grossed $270 million worldwide, Madigan plays Gladys, the mysterious aunt of a young boy whose entire elementary school class vanishes one night -- at the same precise time.

From Barron's

The Associated Press, citing two sources, reported that outdated intelligence likely led to the United States carrying out the deadly missile strike on the elementary school.

From Los Angeles Times

“I’m . . .” I pause, thinking of that feelings chart from elementary school with all those little faces lined up in even rows.

From Literature

Related Words

• grade school
• grammar school