• Primer

    Pronunciation t

    • UK enPR: prīʹmÉ™, IPA: /ˈpɹaɪ.mÉ™(ɹ)/
    • US senses 1, 2: enPR: prÄ­mʹər, IPA: /ˈpɹɪ.mÉš/
    • US all others, and sometimes 1 and 2: enPR: prÄ«mʹə, IPA: /ˈpɹaɪmÉš/
    • Rhymes: -aɪmÉ™(ɹ)

    Full definition of primer

    Noun

    primer

    (plural primers)
    1. An elementary textbook introducing a topic, or teaching basic concepts.
    2. An elementary book for teaching children to learn the alphabet and to read, write and spell.Benjamin_Hall_Kennedy New Latin Primer (an introductory grammar, published 2008)
    3. (biology) A single-stranded nucleic acid molecule required for the of a DNA molecule.
    4. Any substance used to start a fire.
    5. A small charge that burns furiously when given sufficient electrical current (blasting cap) or when struck with force () that ignites the main combustable substances in explosives or ammunition.
    6. A layer of paint designed to underlay a topcoat, used to enhance the adhesion and durability of the topcoat and help in protection of the surface.
    7. A device used to circulate gasoline into the ignition chamber of an engine.

    Related terms

    Adjective

    primer

    1. (obsolete) First; original; primary.
      • Draytonthe primer English kings
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