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Synonyms

scholarship

American  
[skol-er-ship] / ˈskɒl ərˌʃɪp /

noun

  1. learning; knowledge acquired by study; the academic attainments of a scholar.

  2. a sum of money or other aid granted to a student, because of merit, need, etc., to pursue their studies.

  3. the position or status of a student who has been granted money or other aid to pursue their studies.

  4. a foundation to provide financial assistance to students.


scholarship British  
/ ˈskɒləʃɪp /

noun

  1. academic achievement; erudition; learning

    1. financial aid provided for a scholar because of academic merit

    2. the position of a student who gains this financial aid

    3. ( as modifier )

      a scholarship student

  2. the qualities of a scholar

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Related Words

See learning.

Etymology

Origin of scholarship

First recorded in 1525–35; scholar + -ship

Explanation

Scholarship is the research done by academics. Or if you receive a scholarship, you're getting an award that will help pay the cost of tuition at school. If you're getting ready for college, chances are you're also looking to see if any scholarships are available. A scholarship is a great thing to get: it means you don't have to pay full tuition to go to a school. Scholarships are awarded for good grades, athletic success, and other accomplishments. Once you get in to school, you'll be engaged in another kind of scholarship — the kind that has to do with research, studying, and higher learning.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing scholarship

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I remember progressing through the ages and getting closer and closer to that professional deal - obviously a scholarship first, and then signing my first pro was massive.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

One of our lifelong participants, despite total blindness, is graduating from the University of Miami Frost School of Music and transitioning on full scholarship to the University of Miami School of Law.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 2026

And it’s all ostensibly for a very good cause: a scholarship fund for college journalism students.

From Salon • Apr. 24, 2026

Caddie Academy trains the students and supports the scholarship program.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

The incompatibility of these two foundings is reflected in the divisive character of the scholarship on the latter.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis