Priming /(?)/

Prim·ing

Priming

n.
  1. The powder or other combustible used to communicate fire to a charge of gunpowder, as in a firearm.
  2. The first coating of color, size, or the like, laid on canvas, or on a building, or other surface. (Paint.)
  3. The carrying over of water, with the steam, from the boiler, as into the cylinder. (Steam Eng.)

Phrases & Compounds
Priming of the tide
See Lag of the tide, under 2d Lag.
Priming tube
a small pipe, filled with a combustible composition for firing cannon.
Priming valve
a spring safety valve applied to the cylinder of a steam engine for discharging water carried into the cylinder by priming.
Priming wire
a pointed wire used to penetrate the vent of a piece, for piercing the cartridge before priming.