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