Prime meaning

What does “prime” mean? Definitions, examples, synonyms and opposites.

“prime” is a noun, verb and adjective with 12 meanings. Its most common meaning is: a natural number that has exactly two distinct natural number divisors: 1 and itself.

prime

noun

  1. a natural number that has exactly two distinct natural number divisors: 1 and itself

  2. the period of greatest prosperity or productivity

  3. the second canonical hour; about 6 a.m.

  4. the time of maturity when power and vigor are greatest

verb

  1. insert a primer into (a gun, mine, or charge) preparatory to detonation or firing

    “prime a cannon”

    “prime a mine”

  2. cover with a primer; apply a primer to

  3. fill with priming liquid

    “prime a car engine”

adjective

  1. first in rank or degree

    “an architect of premier rank”

    “the prime minister”

    Synonymspremier
  2. used of the first or originating agent

    “prime mover”

  3. of superior grade

    “choice wines”

    “prime beef”

  4. of or relating to or being an integer that cannot be factored into other integers

    “prime number”

  5. being at the best stage of development

    “our manhood's prime vigor”

    Synonymsmeridian

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University