noun
primer
A coating applied to prepare a surface for paint.
A coat of primer helps paint stick to the wall.
Etymology
Primer is formed from prime, to prepare, with -er. The preliminary coating readies the surface for the paint that follows.
More examples
- Let the primer dry before you start painting.
- This primer keeps old stains from showing through the paint.
- Some primers are specially made for bare metal.
Forms
primer · primers
prime verb — To prepare a surface by applying primer.
Similar words
- undercoat
- A lower paint layer, sometimes applied over a separate primer.
- sealer
- Blocks pores or stains; does not necessarily improve paint adhesion.