Definition

A person who has enrolled or is registered as a student at a college or university.

Example

As a new matriculant, she was excited to start her classes next week.

Conversation

Have you met the new matriculant in our class yet?

Not yet, but I heard they’re really friendly.

Yeah, I think they’re going to fit in well here.

I hope so! It’s always nice to have more matriculants around.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Matriculant is formed from "matricula" (from Latin, meaning a register or list) and "-ant" (a suffix used to form agent nouns). The word refers to a person who is registered or enrolled, particularly in an educational institution.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'register' ('matricula') where students are 'enrolled' ('-ant') — that's why a matriculant is someone who is registered in a school.

Visually Confused Words