priming

American  

[prahy-ming] / ˈpraɪ mɪŋ /

noun

1. the powder or other material used to ignite a charge.

2. the act of a person or thing that primes.

3. material used as a primer, or a first coat or layer of paint, size, etc.

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priming British  

/ ˈpraɪmɪŋ /

noun

1. something used to prime

2. a substance, used to ignite an explosive charge

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Other Word Forms

• self-priming adjective

Etymology

Origin of priming

First recorded in 1590–1600; prime + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

After years of priming us to expect speedy deliveries, the ever-growing e-commerce economy is weaning us off them—and no one seems to mind.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 7, 2026

As Barron’s wrote last November, the company has been priming investors for the loss of Apple’s sales for years, and it may already be factored into the stock price.

From Barron's • Jan. 9, 2026

The existence of Mas'ud's alleged confession was first revealed in 2020, when the US announced it was charging him with building and priming the bomb used on Pan Am 103.

From BBC • Oct. 7, 2025

In honor of my ancestors, I eschew steps like sanding and priming.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2024

She loved it when her father taught her the tricks like priming the carburetor that would keep the temperamental machine on the road.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly

Related Words

• conference
• discussion
• information
• instruction
• meeting
• update