Learning
/ˈlɜːr.nɪŋ/noun
The process of acquiring knowledge, skills, or understanding through study, experience, or teaching.
Did you know?The Old English verb behind “learning” was related to lore—knowledge preserved and transmitted through stories, tradition, and remembered speech.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*lisnōjaną
“To learn or become acquainted with knowledge; the reconstructed ancestor of later Germanic forms.”
Gothic
Gothic
laisjan
“To teach or instruct.”
Old English
Old English
leornian
“To learn, study, or acquire knowledge through instruction.”
Middle English
Middle English
lernen
“To learn, study, or teach; the spelling and usage gradually moved toward modern forms.”
14th Century
English
lernyng
“The acquisition of knowledge or skill; also instruction or teaching.”
Modern English
English
learning
“The process or result of gaining knowledge, understanding, or ability.”