polymath

noun

poly·​math ˈpä-lē-ˌmath How to pronounce polymath (audio)
: a person of encyclopedic learning
polymath adjective
or polymathic

Examples of polymath in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the past, polymaths became well versed in various disciplines and made important contributions to each. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 4 June 2025 Now polymaths may be setting the course of artificial intelligence going forward, and AI may even set the stage for a burst of polymath activity. Joe McKendrick, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025 The Austrian polymath August Musger was the first to devise a synchronous motor for such use back in 1907. Jordan Hoffman, EW.com, 14 May 2025 History attests to the creative power of polymaths. Aytekin Tank, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for polymath

Word History

Etymology

Greek polymathēs very learned, from poly- + manthanein to learn — more at mathematical

First Known Use

1621, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of polymath was in 1621

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Cite this Entry

“Polymath.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polymath. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

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