Definition

A high-level academic degree awarded by a university, usually after completing advanced study and research in a specific field.

Example

She earned her doctorate in psychology after years of hard work and research.

Conversation

Did you hear that Sarah just finished her doctorate?

Wow, that's impressive! I knew she was working hard.

Yeah, she spent years on her research.

It definitely paid off; a doctorate is a huge achievement!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Doctorate** → It is formed from "doctor" (from Latin *docere*, meaning to teach) and the suffix "-ate" (meaning to make or to become). The word "doctorate" refers to the degree that signifies one has become a teacher or expert in a particular field.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who has 'become' ('-ate') a 'teacher' ('doctor') — that's why a doctorate is a degree that signifies expertise in a subject.

Visually Confused Words