polytechnic
Polytechnic (noun) means a college or institute that teaches applied sciences, engineering, and technical skills rather than purely academic subjects. Example: “He trained as an electrician at the local polytechnic.”
How to use polytechnic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA school focused on practical, technical, and vocational training rather than purely academic study.
Word forms
polytechnics plural
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He trained as an electrician at the local _____.
Etymology
From French polytechnique, coined for the École polytechnique founded in Paris in 1794, from Greek polútechnos, "skilled in many arts."
Synonyms
View more →Frequently asked questions
What does “polytechnic” mean?
The word “polytechnic” means a college or institute that teaches applied sciences, engineering, and technical skills rather than purely academic subjects. In plain terms, a school focused on practical, technical, and vocational training rather than purely academic study.
How do you use “polytechnic” in a sentence?
Here is “polytechnic” used in a sentence: “He trained as an electrician at the local polytechnic.”
What part of speech is “polytechnic”?
Depending on how it is used, “polytechnic” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “polytechnic” come from?
The word “polytechnic” dates back to around 1794 and comes from French. From French polytechnique, coined for the École polytechnique founded in Paris in 1794, from Greek polútechnos, "skilled in many arts.".
How many meanings does “polytechnic” have?
“Polytechnic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a college or institute that teaches applied sciences, engineering, and technical skills rather than purely academic subjects.
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