# primer

/ˈpɹaɪmɝ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/primer
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. introductory book

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- The professor wrote a short primer on economics for people who have never studied it.
- The pamphlet serves as an excellent primer for new investors, distilling complex market theories into accessible, actionable principles.

### 2. preparatory paint

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- You should apply a coat of primer to the wooden fence before you use the blue paint.
- Without a high-quality primer, the gloss paint will likely peel from the metal surface within a few months of exposure to the elements.

### 3. makeup base

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- She used a hydrating primer to keep her makeup looking fresh all day.
- The makeup artist insisted that a silicone-based primer was essential for achieving a flawless finish under the studio's harsh lighting.

### 4. explosive igniter

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

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

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

- The soldier checked the primer in the cartridge before loading the weapon.
- The investigation revealed that the blast was delayed because the primer had been compromised by moisture during storage.

### 5. DNA replication

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

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

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

- The scientist added a specific primer to the sample to begin the DNA test.
- In polymerase chain reaction, the choice of primer is critical for ensuring that only the target sequence is amplified during the thermal cycling.

## Examples

- This book is a great primer on how to start a small business.
- The professor provided a ten-page primer on quantum mechanics to help the students prepare for the first lecture.
- Before the summit began, the delegates were issued a policy primer that outlined the historical tensions and current diplomatic objectives of each participating nation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.