rudiment

noun
UK: /ˈruːdɪmənt/
US: /ˈruːdɪmənt/

  1. A basic principle or element of a subject.

    1. He knows the rudiment of music.
    2. She learned the rudiment of cooking by watching her mother.

  2. A first, imperfect stage of development.

    1. I have a rudiment of an idea.
    2. The report is still in its rudiment stage and needs further development.

  3. A part or organ that is not well developed.

    1. That animal has a rudiment of tail.
    2. The wings of the flightless bird are mere rudiment now.

Synonyms

principle foundation basis essential element

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "rudiment" in English means: A basic principle or element of a subject., A first, imperfect stage of development., A part or organ that is not well developed..

The phonetic transcription of "rudiment" is /ˈruːdɪmənt/ in British English and /ˈruːdɪmənt/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "rudiment": principle, foundation, basis, essential, element.

Example usage of "rudiment": "He knows the rudiment of music.". More examples on the page.