ədˈvænst,
British ədˈvɑːnst
1
: beyond the basic level
advanced mathematics
She's taking an advanced course in English. = She's taking a course in advanced English.
The school has courses for elementary, intermediate, and advanced students.
The book explains both basic and advanced techniques.
The job requires someone with an advanced degree. [=a degree (such as a master's degree or a PhD) that is higher than a bachelor's degree]
2
: far along in a course of progress or development: such as
a
: having developed more than others
a highly advanced civilization [=a modern civilization]
an advanced society
b
: having or using new and modern methods
advanced technology
technologically advanced weapons
The system has many advanced features.
c
: having reached a bad state or condition
The house was in an advanced state of disrepair. [=the house was in very poor condition]
The disease is in an advanced stage.
an advanced form of cancer
d
: far along in a process of aging
She began painting at an advanced age. [=she began painting when she was old]
He is rather advanced in age/years. [=rather old]
a man/woman of advanced age/years [=an old man/woman]
Cite this Entry
“Advanced.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/advanced. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.
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