varsity

noun

var·​si·​ty ˈvär-sə-tē 

-stē

plural varsities

1

a

: the principal squad representing a university, college, school, or club especially in a sport

b

: regular sense 1c

2

British : university

Examples of varsity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

His varsity tennis sweater and glasses are so nerdy-chic. —Christian Allaire, Vogue, 3 July 2025

The four-year varsity standout will continue his academic and playing career at Saint Anselm College. —Matt Feld, Boston Herald, 3 July 2025

From regular academics, varsity volleyball, and junior varsity basketball, Alondra continues to press on. —Caroline Beck, IndyStar, 2 July 2025

Eva plays clarinet in the marching, concert and jazz bands and earned her varsity letter in Dec. 2024. —Caroline Ritzie, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

by shortening from university (with regular late Middle English opening of tautosyllabic er to ar)

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing varsity

• junior varsity

Rhymes for varsity

• sparsity
• intervarsity

Kids Definition

varsity

noun

var·​si·​ty ˈvär-sət-ē 

-stē

plural varsities

: the main team representing a college, school, or club in contests

Etymology

an altered form of versity, itself an old, shortened form of university