noun
( -s )
Etymology: from gerund of prime (IV)
1.
a. : the act or action of one that primes: as
(1) : the placing in position of an explosive used to fire a charge
(2) : the application of a first coating (as of paint, varnish, or size) to a surface that is to be painted
(3) : the action of a boiler or still in carrying water globules over with the steam generated
(4) : the action of boiling over — used especially of a still in gas manufacturing
(5) : the pulling of tobacco leaves from the growing plant as they mature
b.
(1) : the explosive used in priming a charge
(2) : the material used in priming a surface
(3) : the tobacco leaves removed by priming
2. : a strong solution of sugar added to beer to give it body and make it more palatable