semester etymology

Etymology

The term "semester" comes from the Late Latin word "semestris" (pronounced "se-MES-tris"), which means "half-yearly."

Meaning

A semester is a period of approximately six months in which academic courses are taught at colleges and universities. It is typically one of two terms that make up an academic year.

Origin

The origin of the word "semestris" can be traced back to the Latin root "sex," meaning "six," and "mensis," meaning "month." This suggests that a semester was originally a period of six months.

In ancient Rome, the academic year was divided into two semesters, known as "semester vernum" (spring semester) and "semester autumnum" (autumn semester). These semesters were used to mark the periods during which students attended lectures and examinations.

Over time, the use of the term "semester" spread to other parts of Europe and eventually to the United States. In the 1800s, the American college system began to adopt the semester system, and it has remained in use to this day.

Interesting Fact

In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, a semester is also referred to as a "term." However, in North America, the term "semester" is more commonly used.

semester relate terms

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