University

Definition

University is a noun referring to an institution of higher education and research that awards academic degrees in various disciplines. It typically provides undergraduate and postgraduate education and conducts academic research.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌjuː.nɪˈvɝː.sə.t̬i/
• Respelling: YOO-nih-VUR-suh-tee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌjuː.nɪˈvɜː.sɪ.ti/
• Respelling: YOO-nih-VUR-sih-tee

Etymology

The word "university" originates from the Latin "universitas," meaning "a whole" or "a community." It was first used in the context of higher education in the 13th century to describe a group of scholars. It comes from "universus," meaning "entire" or "whole."

Derivatives

• Universitarian (adjective/noun)
• University-level (adjective)
• University-wide (adjective)
• Universality (noun)
• Universal (adjective, related term)

Synonyms

• Academy
• College
• Institute

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "university" is commonly used to describe institutions of higher education, as in "She plans to attend a prestigious university next year." It also refers to the collective body of staff, students, and scholars, as in "The university organized a research conference."

Related Terms

• College: An institution of higher education, often a constituent part of a university.
• Academia: The environment or community concerned with the pursuit of research, education, and scholarship.
• Campus: The grounds and buildings of a university or college.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An institution of higher learning that awards degrees: Refers to the primary role of universities in education and research.
  • Example: "The university offers programs in arts, sciences, and engineering."
• The physical location or campus of such an institution: Refers to the facilities and grounds of the university.
  • Example: "The university is known for its beautiful architecture."
• The collective body of staff, students, and faculty: Refers to the community within a university.
  • Example: "The university elected a new president last year."