undergraduates — students who are studying for their first degree at a college or university
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: students who are studying for their first degree at a college or university
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌʌndərˈɡrædʒuəts/
Example Sentences
- The professor was surprised that undergraduates could solve such complex problems.
- Most undergraduates survive on ramen noodles and coffee during exam week.
- The university offers various scholarships for outstanding undergraduates.
undergraduates
NOUN[/ˌʌndərˈɡrædʒuəts/]
students who are studying for their first degree at a college or university
The undergraduates rush across the quad, balancing coffee, laptops, and last-minute notes.
The undergraduates prepared carefully for the final exam. (🎓 Bachelor's Degree + 🏫 University Students → Undergraduates)
The undergraduates became graduates and later earned doctorates.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The term emerged as a compound formation in English academic vocabulary to distinguish students pursuing their first degree from those pursuing advanced qualifications. It combines 'under' (beneath, subordinate) with 'graduate' (one who has completed a course of study), literally denoting students at a lower academic level than graduate students.
Breakdown
under- (beneath, lower in rank or level) + graduate (from Latin graduatus, one who has completed a degree). The suffix -s marks the plural form, creating a compound that designates students working toward their bachelor's degree.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The professor was surprised that undergraduates could solve such complex problems.”
“Most undergraduates survive on ramen noodles and coffee during exam week.”
“The university offers various scholarships for outstanding undergraduates.”
“These undergraduates spend more time on social media than studying, yet somehow pass their exams.”
📚Related Words
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