primal

adjective

pri·​mal ˈprī-məl How to pronounce primal (audio)
Synonyms of primalnext
1
: original, primitive
village life continued in its primal innocence— Van Wyck Brooks
2
: first in importance : primary

Synonyms

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Examples of primal in a Sentence

the primal theme of the essay is toleration of religious diversity there was a period of primal idealism after the founding of the republic and before the rise of partisan politics
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This seems rather an understatement to your correspondent., for the style, substance, silhouettes and scintillation of Anaïs C. jewels embody an earthly yet mystical mix of sustainably sourced, precious gemstones inside of primal jewelry forms. — Kyle Roderick, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025 The invisible force is a powerful, primal motivator. — Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 6 Mar. 2025 There’s a simple yet primal excitement for taking down beasts that resemble dragons and dinosaurs, which coexist with wildly distinct creatures outside the usual role-playing norms, such as the puffy bat-like Paolumu that floats in the air like a balloon. — Diego Argüello, Rolling Stone, 27 Feb. 2025 Adria had a primal, violent feeling of losing her place, falling away from the course. — Daniel D'addario, Variety, 17 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for primal

Word History

Etymology

probably from prime entry 1 + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of primal was in 1604

Phrases Containing primal

Rhymes for primal

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Cite this Entry

“Primal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/primal. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

primal

adjective
pri·​mal ˈprī-məl How to pronounce primal (audio)
1
: of or relating to the first period or state : primitive
2
: first in importance : basic
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