often attributive
1
a
: an independent institution of higher learning offering a course of general studies leading to a bachelor's degree
a liberal arts college
also
: a university division offering this
b
: a part of a university offering a specialized group of courses
the university's college of pharmacy
c
: an institution offering instruction usually in a professional, vocational, or technical field
business college
an embalming college
d
: a self-governing constituent body of a university offering living quarters and sometimes instruction but not granting degrees
Balliol and Magdalen Colleges at Oxford
called also residential college
e
: a preparatory or high school
2
: the faculty, students, or administration of a college
The college was at the football game in force.
3
a
: a group of persons considered by law to be a unit
b
: a body of electors compare electoral college
4
: a building used for an educational or religious purpose
5
: a body of clergy living together and supported by a foundation
Cite this Entry
“College.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/college. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.
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