rudiment /ˈɹuːdɪmənt/noun 4verb 1forms 3 noun4 •[in the plural] A fundamental principle or skill, especially in a field of learning.We'll be learning the rudiments of thermodynamics next week. •In percussion, one of a selection of basic drum patterns learned as an exercise.Show me your rudiments. — 2014 •[in the plural] A form that lacks full or complex development.I have the rudiments of an escape plan. •A body part that no longer has a function verb1 •To ground; to settle in first principles. formsrudimented · rudimenting · rudiments