prime

/pɹaɪ̯m/

Group 19Difficulty 1/3

Definitions

(verb)
To prepare someone for a situation; to make something ready for use
GRE
(adjective)
Of the first importance; of the best quality
GRE

Example in Context

The campaign primed voters with a steady stream of messaging designed to frame the debate on its own terms.

Synonyms

preparereadyset up

Etymology

To prepare something for its first use or occurrence.

  • primus (Latin) — first

Memory Aid

⚙️Sounds like “prime

A robot getting PRIMED for action, being oiled up like it’s going on a DATE!

Visual Association

🔧A shiny robot being polished and equipped with gadgets, ready for its first big mission.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “prime” mean on the GRE?

prime (verb) means “To prepare someone for a situation; to make something ready for use”. The campaign primed voters with a steady stream of messaging designed to frame the debate on its own terms.

How to remember “prime” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “prime” sounds like “prime”. A robot getting PRIMED for action, being oiled up like it’s going on a DATE!

What are synonyms for “prime”?

Common synonyms: prepare, ready, set up.