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.

For years, students at Hampshire College joked that the small liberal arts school could close at any moment.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

He advised students in liberal arts to major in law, accounting, or Chinese literature, reasoning that these fields most commonly led to recruitment after civil service exams.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

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

From Barron's • Feb. 19, 2026

It’s up to universities to address what has gone wrong within their walls and to restore the values and practices that make for genuine liberal arts learning—and thoughtful, responsible citizens.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 30, 2025

"Oh no, nothing like that, just a liberal arts course. No trades."

From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison