learning curve

noun

1

: a curve plotting performance against practice

especially : one graphing decline in unit costs with cumulative output

2

: the course of progress made in learning something

Examples of learning curve in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

What’s aided in his learning curve is that the Chiefs’ attendance during Phase 2 has been exemplary. —Pete Sweeney may 7, Kansas City Star, 7 May 2026

After becoming a parent last year, one of the biggest things learning curves (other than how to take care of a tiny human, of course) was getting a handle on baby products. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 5 May 2026

For first-time homeowners, the learning curve can feel steep. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Apr. 2026

Mendoza, for all his accomplishments, faces a steeper learning curve with a much worse supporting cast, so Love’s early lead isn’t surprising. —J.j. Bailey, New York Times, 26 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for learning curve

• conserve
• deserve
• manoeuvre
• observe
• preserve
• reserve
• subserve
• mirv
• nerve
• serve
• swerve
• verve