diploma

noun

di·​plo·​ma də-ˈplō-mə How to pronounce diploma (audio)
plural diplomas
1
plural also diplomata də-ˈplō-mə-tə How to pronounce diploma (audio) : an official or state document : charter
2
: a writing usually under seal conferring some honor or privilege
3
: a document bearing record of graduation from or of a degree conferred by an educational institution

Examples of diploma in a Sentence

He earned his high school diploma by attending classes at night.
Recent Examples on the Web
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As Byron, 17, crossed the stage to get his diploma, his relatives clapped and cheered, determined to stay strong for him. Faith Karimi, CNN Money, 7 July 2025 In the post, Johan was captured walking across the stage to collect his diploma, while a second clip featured Klum kissing her graduate on the cheek. Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 7 July 2025 So far this year, 11 students have received diplomas while incarcerated. Cameron Knight, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 On track to earn her academic honors diploma, Sophia balances a rigorous course load while actively participating in basketball and track, and serving as a student athletic trainer. Caroline Beck, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for diploma

Word History

Etymology

Latin, passport, diploma, from Greek diplōma folded paper, passport, from diploun to double, from diploos

First Known Use

1622, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of diploma was in 1622

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Diploma.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diploma. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

diploma

noun
di·​plo·​ma də-ˈplō-mə How to pronounce diploma (audio)
: a document granting a special right, honor, or power
especially : a document that shows a person has finished a course or graduated from a school

More from Merriam-Webster on diploma

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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