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

The promise of full financial-need coverage is why Perez, who grew up in Guatemala and immigrated to the U.S. three years ago, is aiming to attend a private liberal arts college.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 29, 2025

And I'm already enrolled at a small liberal arts college and set to begin this fall, although I won't be playing basketball.

From "Boy21" by Matthew Quick