great books

adjective

: of, relating to, or centered in certain classics of literature, philosophy, history, and science that are believed to contain the basic ideas of western culture
an experimental great books program for 50 selected students—Time

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of great books was in 1945

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Dictionary Entries Near great books

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Cite this Entry

“Great books.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/great%20books. Accessed 8 Feb. 2023.

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