three R's

plural noun

1
: the fundamentals taught in elementary school
especially : reading, writing, and arithmetic
2
: the fundamental skills in a field of endeavor

Word History

Etymology

from the facetiously used phrase reading, 'riting, and 'rithmetic

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of three R's was in 1828

Dictionary Entries Near three R's

three-quarter view

three R's

three-ridge

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Cite this Entry

“Three R's.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/three%20R%27s. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

three R's

plural noun
: the basic subjects (as reading, writing, arithmetic) taught in elementary school
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