Academic

Definition

Academic is used as an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it relates to education, scholarship, or institutions of learning. As a noun, it refers to a person associated with academia, often a scholar or teacher in an educational institution.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌækəˈdɛmɪk/
• Respelling: ak-uh-DEM-ik

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌækəˈdɛmɪk/
• Respelling: ak-uh-DEM-ik

Etymology

The word "academic" originates from the Latin "academicus," which comes from the Greek "Akademikos," relating to the Academy, the school founded by Plato. It evolved in English during the Renaissance period to describe matters related to scholarly pursuits.

Derivatives

• Academia (noun)
• Academician (noun)
• Academicism (noun)
• Academically (adverb)
• Academicize (verb)

Synonyms

• Scholarly
• Educational
• Intellectual

Antonyms

• Practical
• Non-scholarly
• Non-theoretical

Usage

The term "academic" is widely used to refer to anything related to education, learning, or scholarship. It can also imply something theoretical rather than practical. For example: "She has an academic interest in philosophy," or "The argument was purely academic."

Related Terms

• Academy: A place of learning or study.
• Scholar: A person involved in scholarly pursuits or academia.
• Curriculum: The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to education or scholarship: Pertaining to academic institutions or study.
  • Example: "He pursued an academic career in history."
• Theoretical rather than practical: Often used to describe knowledge or discussion not intended for immediate application.
  • Example: "Their debate on the topic was purely academic."

Noun

• A scholar or teacher in an institution of higher education: A person who is a part of academia, typically involved in scholarly research or teaching.
  • Example: "The conference was attended by numerous academics from around the world."