liberal arts

NOUN

general knowledge studies

Synonyms

STRONGEST

mathematics

WEAK

general education history language liberal studies literature philosophy science trivium and quadrivium

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.

Nevertheless, Clark suggested a young person who may be feeling that an economy built on AI does not have a place for them should "develop a hobby" and pursue a liberal arts education.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Outside students from a liberal arts college are practiced in abstract analytical thinking—how institutions are made, what purpose they serve, for whom.

From Slate • May 27, 2026

“Vladimir” began shooting in July 2025 in Toronto, which stood in for an undefined liberal arts college town.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 26, 2026

I am going to have to pick on liberal arts majors.

From Barron's • Feb. 19, 2026

It felt unbearably selfish, just downright wrong, to be indulging myself with an education in the liberal arts at a fancy private college while Mom and Dad were on the streets.

From "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls