Prime Meaning and Definition
Prime
Pronunciation
/praɪm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A prime is an age-old term used to describe a character or personality considered fully developed or mature, typically with a strong sense of individuality, independence, and self-assurance.
Examples
1. “She’s a prime example of a confident and determined individual.”
2. “He’s a prime candidate for the leadership position due to his exceptional skills and experience.”
Synonyms
1. Mature
2. Developed
Antonyms
1. Immature
2. Undeveloped
Etymology
The word ‘prime’ has its origins in the Latin word ‘primus,’ meaning first or earliest. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century to describe something or someone of high quality or superior status.
Additional Information
Primes are often associated with exceptional abilities, intelligence, and leadership qualities. In various contexts, the term can also refer to something that is first in a series or sequence, such as the prime number or the prime interest rate. The concept of being prime is deeply ingrained in our culture, symbolizing excellence and achievement.
In psychology, being prime is linked to a sense of self-efficacy, motivation, and resilience. People who are considered prime tend to exhibit a high level of emotional intelligence, problem-solving skills, and decision-making abilities.
From an economic perspective, prime refers to a product or service of high quality, often associated with a premium price point. In finance, the term is used to describe low-interest rates, typically offered to borrowers with excellent credit history.
In the context of relationships, being prime can indicate a deep emotional connection, mutual respect, and trust between partners. It’s a term often used to describe a long-lasting and fulfilling partnership.
Usage Notes
The word ‘prime’ can be used in various contexts, including:
1. Describing a person’s character or personality.
2. Referring to something of high quality or superior status.
3. Indicating a first or earliest occurrence.
4. Describing a product or service of high quality.
Cultural References
The term ‘prime’ has been referenced in various forms of media, including:
1. Music: The song “Prime Time” by The Chemical Brothers.
2. Film: The movie “Prime” (2005) starring Meryl Streep and Bryan Greenberg.
3. Literature: The novel “Prime Suspects” by Sandra Brown.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Prime time” – the best or most favorable time for something.
2. “Prime example” – a person or thing that exemplifies a particular quality or characteristic.
Collocations
1. Prime minister
2. Prime time TV
3. Prime interest rate
Frequency of Use
The word ‘prime’ is commonly used in business, finance, and everyday conversation, with a moderate level of frequency in formal and informal writing.
Common Misspellings
1. Primm
2. Prim
3. Prume