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Dictionary Entry

primitive

adjective

Find the meaning of the word primitive, plus dictionary definition, pronunciation, thesaurus-style synonyms, antonyms, and related vocabulary.

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Meaning

Dictionary meaning in a clear, student-friendly format.

Relating to an early stage in the evolutionary or historical development of something; not advanced or developed; basic or crude.

Example Sentence

The primitive tools used by early humans were made from stone and bone.

Usage Note

You can use 'primitive' to describe things that are very old, simple, or basic, especially when talking about early stages of development, technology, or societies. It often implies a lack of modern complexity or refinement, or a connection to fundamental, instinctual aspects.