Primordial
hardNeutral tonepry-MOR-dee-ul
adjective
Definition
Existing at or from the beginning of time; primeval
Memory hook
PRIM-ORDIAL: the FIRST ORDER of things — existing from the very beginning of time.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The primordial forces shaped the early universe.”
“Scientists studied the primordial soup that gave rise to life.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ forces shaped the early universe.”
Show answer
primordial
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Primordial is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "primeval" or "ancient" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "modern".
Related GRE Words
antediluvian
Of or belonging to the time before the biblical Flood; ridiculously old-fashioned
hoary
Gray or white with age; old and trite
anachronism
Something that is out of place in terms of historical or chronological context
dilatory
Slow to act; intended to cause delay
evanescent
Soon passing out of sight, memory, or existence; quickly fading or disappearing
quotidian
Of or occurring every day; ordinary or everyday
Master primordial and 1,000+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.