curriculum vitae

play

noun cur·ric·u·lum vi·tae \kə-ˈri-kyə-ləm-ˈvē-ˌtī, -kə-ləm-, -ˈwē-ˌtī, -ˈvī-ˌtē\

Definition of curriculum vitae

plural

curricula vitae

play \kə-ˈri-kyə-lə-ˈvē-ˌtī, -kə-lə-, -ˈwē-ˌtī, -ˈvī-ˌtē\

: a short account of one's career and qualifications prepared typically by an applicant for a position Applicants for the fellowship are asked to submit a curriculum vitae.

See curriculum vitae defined for English-language learners

The different plural forms of curriculum

Curriculum is from New Latin (a post-medieval form of Latin used mainly in churches and schools and for scientific coinages), in which language it means “a course of study.” It shares its ultimate root in classical Latin, where it meant “running” or “course” (as in “race course”), with words such as corridor, courier, and currency, all of which come from Latin currere “to run.”

As is the case with many nouns borrowed directly from Latin, there is often some confusion as to the proper way to form its plural. Both curricula and curriculums are considered correct.

This word is frequently seen in conjunction with vitae; a curriculum vitae (Latin for “course of (one’s) life”) is “a short account of one's career and qualifications prepared typically by an applicant for a position” – in other words, a résumé. Curriculum vitae is abbreviated CV, and is pluralized as curricula vitae.

Origin and Etymology of curriculum vitae

Latin, course of (one's) life

First Known Use: 1902

Other Business Terms

amortize, caveat emptor, clearinghouse, divest, due diligence, emolument, green-collar, marque, overhead, perquisite