classmate
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /klˈɑːsmeɪt/
US
- /ˈklæsˌmeɪt/
Description
- student in the same class
- fellow student
- class peer
- co-student
Think back to your school days – the person sitting next to you in history class, the one you partnered with for science experiments, or the kid you raced to the lunch table. That's a classmate! A classmate is simply someone who attends the same class or course as you, usually at school, college, or in a training program. It's more than just being in the same room; it implies shared experiences and learning alongside one another. You might collaborate with a classmate on projects, compete against them in exams, or even become lifelong friends. Sometimes, you use "classmate" to distinguish someone from a teacher or professor—they're your peers, going through the same educational journey.
The word "classmate" refers to a person who attends the same class or course of study as another individual. It is a term deeply rooted in the experience of formal education, whether that's elementary school, high school, university, or even vocational training. While you might know many people at your school, not everyone is necessarily a classmate—it specifically refers to those enrolled in the same class, course, or section.
The context of "classmate" often implies a level of shared experience and understanding. You are both navigating the same assignments, facing similar challenges, and striving toward common goals. This can foster camaraderie and collaboration. Think about group projects where you rely on your classmates to contribute their skills and knowledge.
However, "classmate" does not automatically mean friendship. It simply denotes a shared educational setting. You might be friendly with some classmates, neutral toward others, or even competitive with a few. The term is primarily descriptive—it identifies someone as a fellow student rather than defining the nature of your relationship. You might reminisce about old classmates years after graduation, remembering shared memories and experiences from your time together. It is a word that evokes a sense of belonging to a particular learning community.
Examples
- 1
Homework help
I asked a classmate to send me the homework after I got sick.
- 2
School group
Most of my classmates already knew each other from middle school.
- 3
Past friendship
Julia was my classmate in high school, but we lost touch after graduation.
- 4
Long familiarity
We've been classmates since seventh grade, so we know each other pretty well.
- 5
Chance meeting
He ran into an old classmate at the airport and stopped to chat.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- classmatenoun
Forms
- classmatespluralnoun