Did you know?
Alumnus or Alumna?
Many people are comfortable using the word alumni to refer to someone who was a student of a particular school. However, others feel quite strongly that this is an error and that the following forms should be used: alumnus (for one male), alumni (for multiple males, or for a mix of males and females), alumna (for one female), and alumnae (for multiple females). The shortened form alum and its plural form alums began to be used in the 19th century. Initially, alum was widely viewed as highly colloquial or informal, but is increasing in use as a gender-neutral alternative.
Examples of alumna in a Sentence
Alexandra Schonfeld, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 2025
Abdoo was raised in Southfield and is a Michigan State University alumna.
—Makayla Coffee, Freep.com, 19 Sep. 2025
Still, Angeria is in a unique position as a Drag Race alumna who has competed in multiple seasons and won the prestigious crown on her second attempt.
—Braedon Montgomery, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025
The five student finalists will debut their eveningwear capsule collections created following a months-long mentorship program with Mohapatra, an alumna of the Fashion Institute of Technology.
—Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 29 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for alumna
Cite this Entry
“Alumna.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alumna. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.
Copy Citation
Share