grammar school

American  

noun

1. an elementary school.

2. British. a secondary school corresponding to a U.S. high school.

3. (formerly) a secondary school in which Latin and Greek are among the principal subjects taught.

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grammar school British  

noun

1. (esp formerly) a state-maintained secondary school providing an education with an academic bias for children who are selected by the eleven-plus examination, teachers' reports, or other means Compare secondary modern school comprehensive school

2. another term for elementary school

3. a private school, esp one controlled by a church

4. a secondary school forming part of the public education system

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Etymology

Origin of grammar school

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

Dame Jenni had a grammar school education in her home town of Barnsley, South Yorkshire, before going on to study French and drama at the University of Hull.

From BBC

“Knew him at grammar school. His moronic remarks haven’t advanced in the years since.”

From Literature

Foodstock said private tuition doubled the likelihood of attending a grammar school, but disadvantaged children were less able to finance it.

From BBC

“There were books when my daughters were in grammar school and high school that stated we were extinct,” said Art Morales, an elder and historian in the tribe.

From Los Angeles Times

Born in Stepney, east London, to working-class parents on 22 July 1938, Stamp attended grammar school before pursuing a career in advertising.

From BBC

Related Words

• grade school
• primary school