(?), a. [L. primarius, fr. primus first: cf. F. primaire. See Prime, a., and cf. Premier, Primero.] 1.
First in order of time or development or in intention; primitive; fundamental; original.
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-The church of Christ, in its primary institution. Bp. Pearson.
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-These I call original, or primary, qualities of body. Locke.
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2.
First in order, as being preparatory to something higher; as, primary assemblies; primary schools.
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3.
First in dignity or importance; chief; principal; as, primary planets; a matter of primary importance.
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4. (Geol.)
Earliest formed; fundamental.
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5. (Chem.)
Illustrating, possessing, or characterized by, some quality or property in the first degree; having undergone the first stage of substitution or replacement.
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Primary alcohol (Organic Chem.), any alcohol which possess the group CH2.OH, and can be oxidized so as to form a corresponding aldehyde and acid having the same number of carbon atoms; -- distinguished from secondary
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