erudite

American  

[er-yoo-dahyt, er-oo-] / ˈɛr yʊˌdaɪt, ˈɛr ʊ- /

adjective

1. characterized by great knowledge; learned or scholarly.

   an erudite professor; an erudite commentary.

   Synonyms:

   sapient, wise, knowledgeable, educated

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erudite British  

/ ˌɛrʊˈdɪʃən, ˈɛrʊˌdaɪt /

adjective

1. having or showing extensive scholarship; learned

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Other Word Forms

• eruditely adverb
• eruditeness noun
• erudition noun
• nonerudite adjective
• noneruditely adverb
• noneruditeness noun
• unerudite adjective

Etymology

Origin of erudite

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Latin ērudītus, equivalent to ērud(ē)- ( ē- intensive prefix + rud- “unformed, rough, rude”) + -ītus adjective suffix; e- ¹, rude, -ite ²

Example Sentences

Although his public persona was quite vivid—convivial, erudite but unpretentious, articulate, and unfailingly charming—he did not imbue his buildings with a distinctive graphic sensibility.

From The Wall Street Journal

There are cerebral, erudite dialogues about Proust, French art films and classic Chinese literature that drive the liaisons at its center.

From New York Times

Without the charming, erudite server whispering conspiratorially to you that, you know what, the caviar white out really isn’t worth it.

From New York Times

The catalog said they — but especially Bronzino — “endowed their works with an erudite and self-consciously stylish character that made Florentine portraiture distinctive.”

From New York Times

Kid- and dog-friendly, the sprawling 120-acre modern sculpture and architecture park showcases an eye-catchingly diverse array of works that appeal to both serious art lovers and families looking for more erudite entertainment.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• knowledgeable
• literate
• scholarly