second language

noun

: a language that is learned in addition to the language a person first learned as a young child

Examples of second language in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Those teaching English as a second language typically charge $15 to $28 per hour, according to the site. Kathy Kristof, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Apr. 2026 Though speaking in a heartfelt way can be hard for someone using a second language, many executives of multinational companies do nonetheless make the effort (even if their public relations staff typically crafts the message). Phil Wahba, Fortune, 30 Mar. 2026 Krebs hammers home the notion that, like playing an instrument or speaking a second language, survival skills must be practiced to remain sharp. Andrew McKean, Outdoor Life, 19 Mar. 2026 Weinstein, for example, learned Chinese while studying abroad in Taiwan, then taught English as a second language to seventh-graders there after graduating from the University of Chicago. Jackie Hajdenberg, Sun Sentinel, 17 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for second language

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Second language.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/second%20language. Accessed 20 Apr. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster