noun
polymath
POL-ee-math
Polymath (noun) means a person with deep knowledge and ability across many different subjects. Example: “Leonardo da Vinci is the standard example of a polymath.”
noun
1
A person with deep knowledge and ability across many different subjects.
"Leonardo da Vinci is the standard example of a polymath."
"She is something of a polymath: a cardiologist who also composes and reads four languages."
How to use polymath
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who is genuinely good at a lot of very different things.
When to use it
Formal and complimentary. Used sparingly in careful writing, since real breadth of expertise is rare.
Memory tip
"Jack of all trades" implies shallow competence; polymath implies real mastery in each area.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a true polymath
Renaissance polymath
polymath of the age
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Etymology
From Greek polymathēs, "having learned much", from poly-, "many", and manthanein, "to learn".
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a polymath and a genius?
A genius has exceptional ability, often concentrated in one field. A polymath has substantial expertise spread across several unrelated fields. Someone can be a genius mathematician without being a polymath, and a polymath without being a genius in any one area.
What is the difference between a polymath and a jack of all trades?
Both cover many areas, but the phrases carry opposite judgements. "Jack of all trades" suggests broad but shallow ability, while polymath implies genuine depth in each field. One is faintly dismissive, the other is high praise.
What is the meaning of polymath?
"polymath" (noun) means a person with deep knowledge and ability across many different subjects.
What is another word for polymath?
Other words for "polymath" include Renaissance man, generalist, universal genius, all-rounder.
