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

See Examples For:

physical education

CEO Arthur Lih believes every school should have them in the cafeteria, the nurse’s office, the principal’s office and the physical education department.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 9, 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

For that he has his mother to thank - who persuaded him to study engineering when perhaps a course in physical education might have seemed more logical.

From BBC ● Oct. 31, 2025

“These disparities stem from systemic barriers such as financial limitations, uneven program quality, outdated physical education standards and the lack of a coordinated statewide strategy.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 13, 2025

The last class of Aimee’s first day at her new school was her least favorite, physical education.

From "Nine, Ten: A September 11 Story" by Nora Raleigh Baskin