Definitions

primary source

[prahym-er-ee sawrs, sohrs] / ˈpraɪm ɛr i ˈsɔrs, ˈsoʊrs /

NOUN

text, account, source others are based on

Synonyms

STRONG

eyewitness eyewitness account first-hand first-hand account first-hand report horse's mouth immediate source on-the-scene report on-the-scene reporter original account original source original text source text text of origin unmediated account

WEAK

observer witness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

primary source

More than four in 10 employees 55 and older said they expect Social Security to be their primary source of income in retirement.

From MarketWatch ● Oct. 29, 2026

They first examined what happened when male mice were castrated, removing the primary source of testosterone.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 18, 2026

The staffer said that examiners were no longer allowed to access the primary source level data and could only “check the checker now,” meaning they must rely on a company’s own findings.

From Salon ● Sep. 1, 2026

Of course, it’s always best for the primary source of daily fluids to be water to avoid unnecessary calories and sugar.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 27, 2026

“So we did some primary source research on Mr. Lemoncello and his connection to Alexandriaville.”

From "Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library" by Chris Grabenstein

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

Get a word