Academic – Definition, Synonyms, Examples, and Word History

The word ‘academic’ is widely used in English to describe anything related to education, learning, or scholarly pursuits. It plays a crucial role in contexts involving schools, universities, and intellectual discussions. Understanding the academic meaning and its usage can help in both professional and educational settings.

Definition (Meaning)

‘Academic’ refers to something related to education, scholarship, or institutions like schools and universities. It can also describe a person or work that is scholarly, theoretical, or focused on learning.

Synonyms

Some common academic synonyms include scholarly, educational, intellectual, erudite, and pedagogical. These words can often be used interchangeably depending on the context.

Examples of academic in a Sentence

  • She pursued an academic career, becoming a professor at a prestigious university.
  • The conference was filled with academic discussions on climate change and sustainability.
  • His academic achievements earned him a scholarship to study abroad.

Word History

The term ‘academic’ originates from the Latin word ‘academicus,’ which is derived from ‘Academia,’ the name of the garden near Athens where the philosopher Plato taught. It entered English in the 16th century, initially referring to anything related to Plato’s school or philosophy. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass broader educational and scholarly contexts.

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