Meaning & Definition of word "Semester"
Semester
/səˈmɛstər/
noun:
- 1. A half-year term in a school or college, typically lasting 15 to 18 weeks.
- Example: I can’t believe it’s the end of the semester already; time flies when you’re studying.
- 2. One of two divisions of an academic year.
- Example: During the fall semester, I enrolled in three challenging courses.
- 3. A specific period of academic instruction, usually focused on a specific set of subjects.
- Example: At the beginning of each semester, I review my goals and plan my study schedule.
- 4. The duration of an academic term in which courses are taught and evaluated.
- Example: Our school operates on a semester system, with grades released at the end of each semester.
Etymology
●From the Latin 'semestre', from 'sex' (six) and 'mensis' (month).
Common Phrases and Expressions
spring semester:
The semester that typically begins in January and ends in May.
fall semester:
The semester that typically begins in August or September and ends in December.
semester system:
An academic system divided into two parts, usually used in universities.
Related Words
quarter:
A division of the academic year, usually lasting about 10 to 12 weeks.
trimester:
A period of three months, often used as an academic division.
Slang Meanings of semester
Meaning: Sem
● Example Sentence: I'm almost done with my last sem!
Meaning: Midterms
● Example Sentence: I have so many midterms this semester, it's crazy!