primarily UK /ˈpɹaɪ.mə.ɹə.li/US /pɹaɪˈmɛɹ.əli/ adverb1 •Of a primary or central nature, first and foremost.The idea of fitting a crane to an engine for shunting duties, primarily in works yards, appears to have originated with the North London Railway engine in 1872. — 1951