Definition

A type of school for young children, typically aged four to six, that helps them prepare for elementary school.

Example

My daughter starts kindergarten next week and she is very excited.

Conversation

Did you hear that my sister is starting kindergarten this year?

That's exciting! She must be so happy about it.

Yeah, I can't believe she's old enough for kindergarten already.

Time flies! She'll have a lot of fun making new friends.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Kindergarten is formed from "kinder" (from German, meaning children) and "garten" (meaning garden). The word literally means a garden for children, referring to a place where young children are nurtured and educated.

Memory Tip

Imagine a 'garden' ('garten') where 'children' ('kinder') grow and learn — that's what kindergarten is all about.

Visually Confused Words