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

The payoff is earned over months, not weeks—and organizations that underestimate the learning curve tend to stall halfway. — Volodymyr Lebediev, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026

In addition, says Jillian LoPiano, MD, OB-GYN, and chief health officer at Wisp, menstrual cups can have a steeper learning curve than pads, or even tampons. — Parents, 29 July 2026

For anyone new to the format, Hewitt said to expect a learning curve. — Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 26 June 2026

The rules are simple, the equipment is minimal and the learning curve is short enough that beginners can hold a rally within minutes. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 18 June 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