learned

adjective

1

ˈlər-nəd  : characterized by or associated with learning : erudite

a learned scholar

a learned discussion

2

ˈlərnd  ˈlərnt  : acquired by learning

learned behavior

a learned response

learnedly

ˈlər-nəd-lē 

adverb

learnedness

ˈlər-nəd-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• educated
• erudite
• knowledgeable
• lettered
• literate
• scholarly
• well-read

Examples of learned in a Sentence

We had a learned discussion about politics.

the learned professor can speak knowledgeably on a wide array of subjects

Recent Examples on the Web

And even once the danger was gone—the sprayer was removed—the learned behavior stuck. —Vanina Marcote, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025

The Association of American Law Schools (AALS), which is a learned society of more than 175 law schools nationwide, has as one of its core values for membership dedication to instilling in law students the obligation to respect the rule of law. —Blake D. Morant, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025

Scientists have long theorized that dogs possess an innate connection to humans that they are born with and predates any training or learned behaviors. —Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025

The scientists believe both these factors hint that this form of conflict resolution is a learned one, which is then adopted by younger apes. —New Atlas, 4 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for learned

• adjourned
• concerned
• discerned
• interned
• returned
• sunburned
• unburned
• unearned
• unlearned
• unturned
• upturned
• burned

Kids Definition

learned

adjective

learn·​ed

ˈlər-nəd

: having or showing learning : scholarly

learnedly adverb

learnedness noun