Graduate

Definition

Graduate refers to someone who has successfully completed a course of study at a school, college, or university (noun). As a verb, it means to receive a degree or diploma upon completing academic requirements. It can also describe the act of progressing to a higher level.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (Noun/Adjective): /ˈɡrædʒ.u.ət/
• IPA Pronunciation (Verb): /ˈɡrædʒ.u.eɪt/
• Respelling (Noun/Adjective): GRAD-joo-uht
• Respelling (Verb): GRAD-joo-ate

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (Noun/Adjective): /ˈɡræd.ju.ət/
• IPA Pronunciation (Verb): /ˈɡræd.ju.eɪt/
• Respelling (Noun/Adjective): GRAD-yoo-uht
• Respelling (Verb): GRAD-yoo-ate

Etymology

The word "graduate" originates from the Latin "graduatus," meaning "stepped" or "having degrees," derived from "gradus," meaning "step." It entered Middle English through Old French in the 15th century, referring to someone who has completed a degree.

Derivatives

• Graduation (noun)
• Undergraduate (noun)
• Postgraduate (noun/adjective)
• Graduated (adjective)
• Graduand (noun)

Synonyms

• Alumnus
• Degree-holder
• Pass-out (informal)

Antonyms

• Dropout
• Non-graduate
• None

Usage

The term "graduate" is widely used in academic and professional contexts. For example, "She is a graduate of Harvard University," or "He will graduate from college next year."

Related Terms

• Diploma: A document certifying the completion of an academic program.
• Commencement: A ceremony for graduating students.
• Degree: A qualification awarded by an educational institution.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who has completed a course of study: Refers to someone awarded a degree or diploma.
  • Example: "The university honors its graduates during commencement."

Verb

• To successfully complete an academic program: Refers to earning a degree or diploma.
  • Example: "He will graduate next spring."
• To move up to a higher level: Describes progression or advancement.
  • Example: "The player graduated to the senior league."

Adjective

• Relating to graduates: Refers to academic or professional attributes of graduates.
  • Example: "The graduate program offers advanced research opportunities."