Prime

/praɪm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A state or condition of being prime; a prime number.

The mathematician explained the importance of prime in number theory.

The best part or quality of something.

The prime of her life was marked by great achievements.

verb

To prepare or make ready for a particular purpose.

The team primed the equipment before the big event.

To fill (a pump or other device) with liquid to prepare it for operation.

She primed the ink in the printer before starting the job.

adjective

Of first importance; main.

Education is a prime concern for many families.

Of the best possible quality; excellent.

The restaurant is known for its prime steak and seafood.

First in order or rank; principal.

He was the prime suspect in the investigation.

Middle English, from Latin 'primus' meaning 'first'.

prime time

The time period during which the largest audience is expected for broadcasting.

prime example

An excellent or typical example of something.

in prime

In excellent or ideal condition.

primary

Of chief importance; principal.

primal

Relating to an early stage in evolutionary development.

To be in excellent or top condition.

He's in his prime right now on the basketball court.

To prepare someone for something important.

I'm just priming him for the big presentation.