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

"This partnership means we can provide backing at all levels, priming local people to seize new opportunities, while making it easier than ever for blockbuster productions to film here."

From BBC • Sep. 11, 2025

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

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2024

So she held on, taking huge gulps of air, tensing her muscles, priming them for flight.

From "Bone Gap" by Laura Ruby

Related Words

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