priming

noun

prim·​ing ˈprī-miŋ How to pronounce priming (audio)
1
: the act of one that primes
2
: the explosive used in priming a charge
3

Examples of priming in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The bigger the study, the smaller the romantic priming. Neuroskeptic, Discover Magazine, 11 Nov. 2015 Follow all steps listed on the label, including etching and priming. Jeanne Huber, Washington Post, 3 Nov. 2023 Otherwise, use high-quality paint that doesn't require priming, such as chalk-finish paint, to create your design. Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 July 2023 Instead, the authors suggest that the effect may have been driven by 'unconscious behavioral priming'. Neuroskeptic, Discover Magazine, 16 Sep. 2015 Safety reasons aside, pressure washing and priming are important steps before painting, and the pros have specialized equipment, explains Anthony Lara, President and Owner of Picazzo Painting, a commercial and residential painting and home improvement company in Miami. Brittany Anas, House Beautiful, 17 Aug. 2023 Start with a solid base by sanding, priming, and painting the dresser. Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 July 2023 Spot priming is recommended when covering a repair or imperfections. Barbara Bellesi Zito, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 July 2023 Keep In Mind: Sanding and priming is recommended, especially for covering dark surfaces. Addie Morton, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 May 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'priming.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of priming was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near priming

Cite this Entry

“Priming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/priming. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

priming

noun
prim·​ing
ˈprī-miŋ
1
: the explosive used in priming a charge
2

More from Merriam-Webster on priming

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