varsity

noun

var·​si·​ty ˈvär-sə-tē How to pronounce varsity (audio)
-stē
plural varsities
1
a
: the principal squad representing a university, college, school, or club especially in a sport
2
British : university

Examples of varsity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 See All Example Sentences for varsity

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of varsity was in 1646

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Varsity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/varsity. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

varsity

noun
var·​si·​ty ˈvär-sət-ē How to pronounce varsity (audio)
-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

More from Merriam-Webster on varsity

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