alumna

[ uh-luhm-nuh ]

noun

, plural a·lum·nae [uh, -, luhm, -nee].

1. a woman who is a graduate or former student of a specific school, college, or university.

alumna

/ əˈlʌmnə /

noun

1. a female graduate of a school, college, etc

Gender Note

What's the difference between alumna, alumnus, and alum? See alumnus.

Word History and Origins

Origin of alumna¹

An Americanism dating back to 1840–45; from Latin: literally, “foster daughter, pupil”; feminine of alumnus

Word History and Origins

Origin of alumna¹

C19: feminine of alumnus

Example Sentences

The “That ‘70s Show” alumna began dating Foster in July 2016 after being longtime friends.

From Los Angeles Times

Krasinski and the “Devil Wears Prada” alumna married in July 2010 and share two young daughters.

From Los Angeles Times

Disney Channel alumna Skai Jackson is all grown up and starting a family of her own.

From Los Angeles Times

If that comes to pass, there would be another milestone to toast: Kamala Harris, a Howard alumna, would become the first president to graduate from a historically Black college or university.

From Los Angeles Times

The ‘Game of Thrones’ alumna and the Jonas Brothers singer, who share two daughters, finalized their divorce last week.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• alum
• graduate