Graduate
/ˈɡrædʒuˌeɪt/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo complete a course of study, especially at a college or university, and receive a degree or diploma.
/ˈɡrædʒuˌeɪt/
To successfully complete a course of study.
He graduated from high school with excellent grades.
💡 Simply: Imagine you've been studying hard in school. When you're done and get your diploma, you 'graduate'! It's like finishing a big game or puzzle.
👶 For kids: To finish school and get a special paper that says you learned a lot!
More Examples
She's planning to graduate in May.
My sister graduated from medical school last year.
How It's Used
"She will graduate from university next spring."
"He graduated with honors."
A person who has completed a course of study at a school, college, or university.
/ˈɡrædʒuət/
A person who has completed a course of study.
The graduates tossed their caps in the air.
💡 Simply: A person who has finished school and got their diploma. Like you when you finish a grade!
👶 For kids: Someone who finished school and got a special paper!
More Examples
The university welcomed its new graduates.
Many graduates are looking for jobs.
How It's Used
"The graduates celebrated their achievement."
"The ceremony honored the graduates' hard work."
Relating to studies beyond the bachelor's degree.
/ˈɡrædʒuət/
Relating to study after a first degree
She is doing graduate work in chemistry.
💡 Simply: When you're ready to take more classes after finishing your first degree, it's called 'graduate' level. Like when you go to school to become a doctor or lawyer.
👶 For kids: About learning more after you finished school!
More Examples
He took graduate courses to further his education.
The graduate student conducted research for his dissertation.
How It's Used
"She is pursuing graduate studies in history."
"The university offers several graduate programs."
Idioms & expressions
graduate school
A division of a university offering advanced programs.
"She is planning to go to graduate school after finishing college."
From Latin *graduatus*, past participle of *graduari* 'to take degrees,' from *gradus* 'step, degree'. Originally referred to the act of receiving a degree from a university.
The term initially referred to receiving a degree, often marked by a ceremonial event.
Memory tip
Imagine crossing the finish line of a long race, signifying the completion of your studies.
Word Origin
"step, degree"