primal

/ˈpɹaɪməl/adjective

Coming first in time; belonging to the earliest stage of history.

Example sentence

“The cave paintings offer a glimpse of primal human life.”

'Primal fear' and 'primal instinct' are the standard pairings, for feelings from deep in our animal past. Use 'primeval' for ancient landscapes.

Featured as word of the day on February 25, 2026.

Related words

principalRanking first in importance; main or chief.priceThe amount of money needed to buy or obtain something.printerA machine, typically connected to a computer, that puts text or pictures onto paper; also a similar device that builds three-dimensional objects.prevalentHappening often or existing in many places; common.pristineCompletely clean and untouched, as if in its original perfect condition.prevailTo be the strongest, most common, or most influential; to win out over others.