ENGLISH
REFERENCE

primer

n.
US //ˈpɹaɪmɝ// primer
  1. 1 introductory book (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a simple book used to teach children how to read, or a short book that explains the basics of a subject.

    an elementary textbook for teaching reading or an introductory manual providing basic information on a specific subject.

    Example

    The professor wrote a short primer on economics for people who have never studied it.

    Example

    The pamphlet serves as an excellent primer for new investors, distilling complex market theories into accessible, actionable principles.
  2. 2 preparatory paint (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a special type of paint put on a surface before the main coat of paint to help it stick.

    a preparatory coating applied to materials before painting to ensure better adhesion and durability of the finish coat.

    Example

    You should apply a coat of primer to the wooden fence before you use the blue paint.

    Example

    Without a high-quality primer, the gloss paint will likely peel from the metal surface within a few months of exposure to the elements.
    • undercoat
    • base coat
    • topcoat
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  1. 3 makeup base (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a cream or liquid you put on your face before foundation to make your skin look smoother.

    a cosmetic product applied before foundation to improve coverage and extend the wear of makeup on the skin.

    Example

    She used a hydrating primer to keep her makeup looking fresh all day.

    Example

    The makeup artist insisted that a silicone-based primer was essential for achieving a flawless finish under the studio's harsh lighting.
  2. 4 explosive igniter (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Technical

    a small device or chemical used to start an explosion in a gun or a bomb.

    a cap or cylinder containing a small amount of explosive powder used to detonate a larger charge.

    Example

    The soldier checked the primer in the cartridge before loading the weapon.

    Example

    The investigation revealed that the blast was delayed because the primer had been compromised by moisture during storage.
  3. 5 DNA replication (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    a small molecule that starts the process of making new DNA.

    a short strand of RNA or DNA that serves as a starting point for DNA synthesis.

    Example

    The scientist added a specific primer to the sample to begin the DNA test.

    Example

    In polymerase chain reaction, the choice of primer is critical for ensuring that only the target sequence is amplified during the thermal cycling.

Etymology 1

From Middle English primer, primere, from Medieval Latin primarius and primarium (“prayer book”) possibly via Anglo-Norman primer (“prayer book”), from prima (“prime the liturgical hour and office”) + -arius and -arium (suffix forming related objects). Its use for schoolbooks derived from the late medieval and early modern use of such prayer books to teach reading.

Etymology 2

From prime + -er.

Etymology 3

From Anglo-Norman primer (“first”), from Latin prīmārius (“first”).

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