noun
pupil
PYOO-puhl/ˈpjuːpl/
A student, especially a child taught by a teacher.
The pupil listens as the teacher points to shapes on the board.
Etymology
The diminutive of ‘boy’ named a minor or ward under a guardian’s care. The relationship of care then extended to a teacher’s instruction, giving the meaning ‘student.’
In context
a very unpleasant fashion as she tapped at the door of Miss Norton's study. The teacher sat at a bureau writing. She looked up and readjusted her pinez as her pupil entered.
More examples
- Several pupils raised their hands.
- She was his most attentive pupil.
- The school welcomed its new pupils.
Forms
pupil · pupils
Similar words
- student
- The general learner term, especially common for older learners.
- learner
- Learner need not have an assigned teacher or attend school.