Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkæm.pəs/

Definitions

1. The grounds and buildings of a university, college, or school.

2. The area or site where a particular institution or organization is located.

3. A place where people live and work, typically used to describe areas of academic or corporate environments.

Usage Examples

"The campus of the university was beautifully landscaped, with gardens and wide walkways."

"He walked around the campus, trying to get a feel for the college before making his decision."

"The new campus building will house the research laboratories and lecture halls."

Etymology

From Latin "campus" meaning "field" or "open space." The term originally referred to an open field or area, but evolved in the 19th century to refer specifically to the grounds of a university or educational institution.

Synonyms

Campus grounds, university grounds, college grounds, school grounds, educational facility

Antonyms

Off-campus, outside the campus

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regions, such as the UK, the "a" in campus may be pronounced as a short "a" (/æ/), whereas in other parts of the world, such as the US, it may be pronounced with a slight emphasis on the "p" sound.

Historical Usage

The term "campus" was first used in the United States in the 18th century to refer to the grounds of Princeton University, later spreading to other universities. Over time, it became synonymous with the entire physical area surrounding academic buildings and facilities.

Cultural Nuances

In modern culture, "campus" is often used to describe not only the physical grounds of a school or university but also the social and cultural environment within. The term can refer to the broader student experience, encompassing both academic and extracurricular aspects of student life.

More Information

The concept of the campus has evolved over time. Originally referring solely to the grounds of a university, it now encompasses the buildings, sports facilities, residential areas, and even the surrounding community that together make up the physical space of an institution. The campus environment plays an important role in student life, providing a space for learning, socialization, and cultural exchange. The idea of a campus has expanded with the growth of online education, where "virtual campuses" serve as platforms for remote learning.