What is primal? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of primal in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of primal

primaladjective

ban sơ

/ˈpraɪml//ˈpraɪml/

Where does the word primal come from?

The word "primal" has its roots in Latin and Old English. The Latin word "primus" means "first" or "original," and it's related to the Latin word "primum," meaning "first." In Old English, the word "primal" was spelled "prim" and referred to something that was primary, chief, or principal. In the 14th century, the word "primal" began to take on a new meaning, describing something that was original, ancient, or fundamental. This sense of "primal" was often used to describe the earliest or most basic aspects of something, such as primal emotions or primal instincts. Today, the word "primal" is often used in fields like psychology, anthropology, and biology to describe the earliest or most basic aspects of human behavior, emotions, or interactions. It can also be used more broadly to describe something that is original, ancient, or fundamental.

Vocabulary summary primal

typeadjective

meaning(like) primeval

meaning(belonging to) foundation, basic, main

typeDefault

meaningoriginal, main base

Example of vocabulary primalnamespace

  • The roar of the waterfall evoked a primal feeling of awe and reverence within her.
  • In the dim light of the cave, the sound of footsteps echoed with a primal, almost ominous, intensity.
  • The soft melody of the nightingale's song reminded her of the primal connection between all living things.
  • The smell of smoke triggered a primal instinct in him to flee, warning him of danger.
  • The sight of the sun peeking behind the mountains filled her with an overwhelmingly primal sense of hope and renewal.

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