social studies

plural noun

: a part of a school or college curriculum concerned with the study of social relationships and the functioning of society and usually made up of courses in history, government, economics, civics, sociology, geography, and anthropology

Examples of social studies in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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To determine school grades, the Florida Department of Education calculates school and district grades based on math, science, reading, and social studies assessment scores, along with student achievement, learning gains and graduation rates. Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 July 2025 Due to the threats, about 40 of San Vicente's 1,000 students have left the school, says social studies teacher Julio León. John Otis, NPR, 7 July 2025 The curriculum uses reading and language arts lessons to advance or establish concepts in other subjects, such as history and social studies. Jaden Edison, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 Sarah Schlager graduated summa cum laude from Macaulay Honors College with a BA in political science and history and recently completed a master’s degree in education, specializing in social studies (grades 7-12). Sarah Meira Schlager, Sun Sentinel, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for social studies

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of social studies was in 1853

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Cite this Entry

“Social studies.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/social%20studies. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

social studies

plural noun
: the studies dealing with human relationships and the way society works (as history, civics, economics, and geography)
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