study

stud•y

[[t]ˈstʌd i[/t]] n. pl. stud•ies,

1) application of the mind to the acquisition of knowledge, as by reading, investigation, or reflection

2) the acquisition of knowledge or skill in a particular branch of learning, science, or art:

the study of law[/ex]

3) Often, studies. a student's work at school or college:

to pursue one's studies[/ex]

4) something studied or to be studied

5) a detailed investigation and analysis of a subject, phenomenon, etc

6) a written account of such an investigation

7) a well-defined, organized branch of learning or knowledge

8) zealous endeavor or assiduous effort

9) the object of such endeavor or effort

10) deep thought; reverie

11) archit. a room set apart for private study, reading, writing, or the like

12) mad a musical composition whose purpose is to improve a player's technique

13) lit.

a) a literary composition executed for exercise or as an experiment in a particular method of treatment

b) such a composition dealing in detail with a particular subject, as a single main character

14) fia a work of art produced as an educational exercise, as a memorandum of things observed, or as a guide for a finished work

15) sbz a person in relation to the speed at which he or she can memorize something, esp. an actor in regard to learning lines:

a quick study[/ex]

16) to apply oneself to the acquisition of knowledge, as by reading or investigation

17) to apply oneself; endeavor

18) to think deeply, reflect, or consider

19) edu to take a course of study, as at a college

20) to apply oneself to acquiring a knowledge of (a subject)

21) to examine or investigate carefully and in detail

22) to observe attentively; scrutinize:

to study a person's face[/ex]

23) to read carefully or intently

24) sbz to endeavor to learn or memorize, as a part in a play

25) to give thought to; consider

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Etymology: 1250–1300; (n.) ME studie < OF estudie < L studium < stud(ēre) to be busy with, devote oneself to