graduate
Definitions
To complete a course of study and receive a degree.
毕业。
To mark with degrees or units, as on a scale.
标刻度，分级。
A person who has completed a degree.
毕业生。
Relating to study beyond a first degree.
研究生的。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Latin gradus (a step, a degree) + -ate = to take a degree, to step up a grade. To graduate is to climb one rung up the academic ladder. The 'mark with units' sense (a graduated cylinder) keeps the original 'marked off by steps' idea.
Root gress still carries 64 more wordsUsage Guide
Stress is the same for verb and noun, but the final vowel changes: verb GRAD-u-ate (/ˈɡrædʒueɪt/, ending '-ate' rhyming with 'eight') vs noun/adjective GRAD-u-ate (/ˈɡrædʒuət/, ending '-uate' as a weak 'it'). Note: in AmE you 'graduate college'; in BrE you 'graduate from university.'
Example Sentences
- 1.
She graduated from law school with honors.
- 2.
The lab uses a graduated cylinder to measure liquids.
- 3.
Most graduates struggle to find their first job.