learning
LUR-nihng
Learning (noun) means the process of gaining knowledge or skill. Example: “Online learning lets me study in the evenings after work.”
noun
1
The process of gaining knowledge or skill.
"Online learning lets me study in the evenings after work."
"Learning to swim as an adult was scary but rewarding."
"Learning a new language takes daily practice."
2
Knowledge that has been built up, especially through formal study.
"The professor was a man of great learning who read several ancient languages."
"Her learning, gained over many years at university, impressed everyone."
"His learning was evident in every conversation."
How to use learning
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe act of acquiring knowledge, or the knowledge itself.
Common pairings
lifelong learning
a man of great learning
machine learning
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like learning.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- learnings
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Online _____ lets me study in the evenings after work.
Etymology
From Old English leornung, from the same root as learn.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for learning
See all rhymes for learning →Frequently asked questions
What does “learning” mean?
The word “learning” means the process of gaining knowledge or skill. In plain terms, the act of acquiring knowledge, or the knowledge itself.
How do you pronounce “learning”?
“Learning” is pronounced LUR-nihng (/ˈlɝnɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “learning” in a sentence?
Here is “learning” used in a sentence: “Learning a new language takes daily practice.”
What part of speech is “learning”?
“Learning” is a noun.
Where does the word “learning” come from?
The word “learning” comes from Old English. From Old English leornung, from the same root as learn.
Is “learning” a common word?
“Learning” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “learning” have?
“Learning” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the process of gaining knowledge or skill.
What is the difference between learning and education?
Learning is the internal process of gaining knowledge or skill — something that happens inside a person. Education is the organised system that supports it: schools, teachers, courses, and qualifications. You can learn without formal education, and sit through education without truly learning; the two often go together but aren't the same.
What are the types of learning?
Learning is often split into formal learning in classrooms and courses, and informal learning from everyday life and experience. It also ranges from rote memorising to active, hands-on learning. People talk of visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic styles too, though the idea of fixed learning styles is debated by researchers.
Can learning happen at any age?
Yes. Although children learn quickly, the brain stays capable of forming new connections throughout life — a quality known as plasticity. Adults learn new languages, skills, and ideas well, often helped by experience. This is why 'lifelong learning' is encouraged, from early childhood right through to old age.
Why is learning important?
Learning lets people adapt, solve problems, and grow throughout life. It builds the knowledge and skills needed for work, relationships, and daily tasks, and drives progress in science, culture, and society. Beyond usefulness, learning keeps the mind active and engaged, and many find the process rewarding in itself.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include learning:
