Definition

A person who leaves school or a program before completing it, or someone who has withdrawn from a group or activity.

Example

After two years of college, he became a dropout and decided to start his own business.

Conversation

Did you hear about Jake? He decided to be a dropout this semester.

Really? That's surprising, I thought he was doing well in school.

Yeah, he said he wants to explore other options instead.

I guess that's his choice, but I hope he finds something he loves.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dropout → It is formed from "drop" (from Old English *dropa*, meaning a small amount of liquid) and "out" (meaning outside or away). The word "dropout" refers to someone who has dropped out or left a program or institution, particularly in an educational context.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who has 'dropped' ('drop') out of a program and is now 'away' ('out') from it.

Visually Confused Words