Definition

A group of four subjects studied in medieval education, which includes arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, and music, forming part of the liberal arts curriculum.

Example

In medieval universities, students studied the quadrivium after mastering the trivium.

Conversation

I just started reading about the quadrivium in my history class.

Oh really? What subjects does it cover?

It includes geometry, astronomy, arithmetic, and music.

That sounds interesting! I never knew those were grouped together like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Quadrivium → It is formed from "quattuor" (meaning four) and "via" (meaning way or road). The term refers to the four subjects that were considered essential for a liberal arts education: arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy, thus representing the four ways of knowledge.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'four' ('quattuor') to remember that 'quadrivium' refers to the four essential subjects in education.

Visually Confused Words