Learn Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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learn

[lɜːrn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

education

acquire knowledge or skill

Synonyms

acquire, gain, study.

Examples of usage

  • She is learning French
  • He learns quickly
Context #2 | Verb

experience

gain or acquire knowledge of or skill in (something) by study, experience, or being taught

Synonyms

develop, grasp, pick up.

Examples of usage

  • I learned a lot during my time abroad
  • She is learning to play the piano
Context #3 | Noun

knowledge

the acquisition of knowledge or skills through study, experience, or being taught

Synonyms

education, knowledge, study.

Examples of usage

  • He has a thirst for learning
  • Continuous learning is important in today's world

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Education

  • Different styles of learning include visual (seeing), auditory (hearing), and kinesthetic (doing) to cater to everyone's preferences.
  • Research shows that teaching others can improve your own understanding, which highlights the social aspect of learning.
  • Lifelong learning emphasizes that education continues throughout our lives, adapting to changes in society and technology.

Psychology

  • The brain physically changes during the learning process, creating new neural pathways as new skills or knowledge are acquired.
  • Behavioral studies show rewards, like praise or treats, can enhance learning by encouraging desired behaviors.
  • The 'spacing effect' suggests that spreading out learning over time (rather than cramming) leads to better retention of information.

Technology

  • E-learning platforms have revolutionized education, providing access to courses from around the world through the internet.
  • Artificial intelligence can help customize learning experiences, making them more effective based on individual learner needs.
  • Gamification uses game-like elements in educational settings, making learning more engaging and fun.

Cultural Impact

  • The phrase 'learn from your mistakes' highlights the cultural belief in growth and self-improvement through experience.
  • Different cultures approach education in unique ways, often reflecting their values, priorities, and available resources.
  • 'Learn to walk before you run' is an idiom that reminds us that mastering foundational skills is essential before tackling more complex tasks.

Origin of 'learn'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'learn' comes from the Old English word 'leornian,' which meant 'to get knowledge.'
  • In German, the word 'lernen' carries a similar meaning and shows how languages evolve while keeping the same root.
  • The concept of learning has been part of human culture for thousands of years, with origins dating back to early teaching practices.

The word 'learn' originated from the Old English word 'leornian', which meant 'to get knowledge, be cultivated'. It has evolved over time to represent the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, or information. Learning is a fundamental aspect of human development and is essential for personal growth and success in various fields.


See also: learnable, learned, learner, learners, learning, unlearned.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,209, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.