primal Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite serving as an essential component
    central; cardinal; key; fundamental.
    • a cardinal rule
    • the central cause of the problem
    • an example that was fundamental to the argument
    • computers are fundamental to modern industrial structure
  2. adjective satellite having existed from the beginning; in an earliest or original stage or state
    primaeval; aboriginal; primordial; primeval.
    • aboriginal forests
    • primal eras before the appearance of life on earth
    • the forest primeval
    • primordial matter
    • primordial forms of life

WordNet


Pri"mal adjective
Etymology
LL. primalis, fr. L. primus the first. See Prime, a.
Definitions
  1. First; primary; original; chief.
    It hath the primal eldest curse upon it. Shak.
    The primal duties shine aloft like stars. Wordsworth.

Webster 1913