Main Entry: el·e·men·tal

Pronunciation: \ˌe-lə-ˈmen-t^əl\

Function: adjective

Date: 15th century

1 a : of, relating to, or being an element; specifically : existing as an uncombined chemical element b (1) : of, relating to, or being the basic or essential constituent of something : fundamental <elemental biological needs> (2) : simple, uncomplicated <elemental food> c : of, relating to, or dealing with the rudiments of something : elementary <taught elemental crafts to the children> d : forming an integral part : inherent <an elemental sense of rhythm>
2 : of, relating to, or resembling a great force of nature <the rains come with elemental violence> <elemental passions>

— elemental noun

— el·e·men·tal·ly \-t^əl-ē\ adverb