Undergraduate
/ˌʌndərˈɡrædʒuət/
Definitions
2 meaningsA student at a college or university who is studying for their first degree.
/ˌʌndərˈɡrædʒuət/
A student at a university or college who has not yet received their first degree.
She is an undergraduate at Harvard University, studying biology.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're a student in college, but you haven't finished your first big achievement, like getting a Bachelor's degree. You're an undergraduate! It's like being in the middle of playing a game to win a prize, but not at the finish line yet.
👶 For kids: A student in college who's still learning and hasn't gotten their diploma (certificate) yet.
More Examples
The university is hosting a career fair specifically for its undergraduates.
As an undergraduate, he participated in several research projects.
How It's Used
"Many undergraduates live on campus in dormitories."
"The university offers various scholarships for undergraduate students."
Relating to a student who is studying for their first degree.
/ˌʌndərˈɡrædʒuət/
Relating to a course of study for a first degree.
He took an undergraduate course in computer science.
💡 Simply: Imagine your favorite class at school. Now, if it leads to getting your first degree, it is an undergraduate course or program!
👶 For kids: About going to college to get your first diploma.
More Examples
The library has a wide selection of undergraduate textbooks.
The professor designed the lecture for an undergraduate audience.
How It's Used
"She has an undergraduate degree in history."
"The university offers undergraduate programs in various fields."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From 'under' (below or not yet) + 'graduate' (a person who has completed a course of study). It first appeared in the mid-19th century, referring to students who had not yet earned their bachelor's degree.
The word 'undergraduate' became increasingly common in the 19th century as universities and colleges expanded and differentiated their programs.
Memory tip
Think of 'under' the level of a graduate; still working towards a degree.
Word Origin
"under (below/not yet) + graduate (a person who has completed a course of study)"