1. an introductory textbook or basic guide to a subject
2. a substance applied to a surface before painting to help the paint adhere
3. a small explosive charge used to ignite a larger explosive
Usage: military; technical

Examples

• She bought a primer on basic computer programming.
• The teacher assigned a grammar primer for homework.
• Apply primer to the wall before painting it blue.
• The painter used white primer on the wooden fence.
• The demolition expert carefully placed the primer charges.
• Without the primer, the main explosive wouldn’t detonate.
• This chemistry primer covers all the fundamental concepts.