prime

prime · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Of first importance; main.

  2. 2.

    Of the best possible quality; excellent.

  3. 3.

    (Mathematics) (Of a number) divisible only by itself and one.

  4. 4.

    The best or most important part of something.

  5. 5.

    (Religion) A service forming part of the Divine Office.

  6. 6.

    Prepare someone for a situation by giving them information.

  7. 7.

    Prepare a surface for painting.

  8. 8.

    Prepare a device for use or action.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    prime minister — The head of government.
  • •
    prime time — The time when TV has the most viewers.
  • •
    prime mover — The initiator of a plan or project.
  • •
    in one's prime — At the peak of one's abilities.
  • •
    prime number — A number divisible only by 1 and itself.

Related words

Antonyms: inferior, secondary
See also: chief, first, main, primary
Synonyms: chief, main, primary, top

Etymology

From Latin primus ("first").