grammar school

noun

1. an elementary school.
2. British. a secondary school corresponding to a U.S. high school.
3. (formerly) a secondary school in which Latin and Greek are among the principal subjects taught.

grammar school

noun

1. (esp formerly) a state-maintained secondary school providing an education with an academic bias for children who are selected by the eleven-plus examination, teachers' reports, or other means Compare secondary modern school comprehensive school
2. another term for elementary school
3. a private school, esp one controlled by a church
4. a secondary school forming part of the public education system

Word History and Origins

Origin of grammar school¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

In 1964, Marks became the first boy from Garw grammar school to win a place at Oxford University, where he studied physics.

From BBC

The list published by the DE included almost 40 grammar schools and a prep school, where parents typically pay fees for their children to attend.

From BBC

He first touched the oval ball aged 11, when he started at a local grammar school and found it the dominant sport.

From BBC

About 2,500 pupils in Northern Ireland attend grammar school preps, Christian and other independent schools.

From BBC

At grammar school, Field joined the Young Conservatives.

From BBC

Related Words

• grade school
• primary school