physical education

American  

noun

1. systematic instruction in sports, exercises, and hygiene given as part of a school or college program.

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physical education British  

noun

1.  PE.  training and practice in sports, gymnastics, etc, as in schools and colleges

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Etymology

Origin of physical education

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

Aspiring physical education teacher Gao Yemiao missed his 30-second window to buy a train ticket home for China's biggest holiday before seats sold out -- but he was lucky.

From Barron's • Feb. 13, 2026

This small-group instruction is "almost personalized" and more "efficient" than typical classes, added Clarisse Naud, a physical education adviser.

From Barron's • Feb. 10, 2026

At least one student rebelled, leading to the confiscation of a phone during physical education, reported an 8th-grader at Walter Reed, who asked not to be named.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2025

The letter called on the government to give teachers the necessary training, the right tools and the understanding to deliver "truly inclusive physical education".

From BBC • Sep. 9, 2024

Language arts and physical education rounded out the rest of the day.

From "Shooting Kabul" by N. H. Senzai