a scholar of remarkable erudition a theologian of impressive erudition but with a down-to-earth manner

Recent Examples on the Web

Happily for readers, Biss wears her erudition lightly. Ann Levin, Star Tribune, "Review: A writer reflects on contradictions of capitalism," 2 Sep. 2020

Readers tempted to dismiss Conquest as a dinosaur for his lyric formality, his Old World erudition and his occasionally patronizing love of women would be too hasty. David Mason, WSJ, "‘Robert Conquest: Collected Poems’ Review: The Impervious Dream," 21 Aug. 2020

Weinberger wears his erudition with an understated elegance, and anyone who has read his political essays (which use the same wry method of collage) should find in these further-off horrors and follies a source of light relief. Lidija Haas, Harper's Magazine, "New Books," 18 Aug. 2020

These movies are a showcase for Steve’s attempts at erudition. Kathryn Shattuck, New York Times, "Steve Coogan Reaches the End of ‘The Trip’," 20 May 2020

The playful title, taken from a Prince lyric, is matched by the wit and erudition in the essays. Lorraine Berry, Los Angeles Times, "21 new and classic books to keep you in touch with the natural world," 6 Apr. 2020

During his stay on Lispenard St., Douglass also absorbed Ruggles’ passion and erudition, receiving a crash course in radical abolitionism. Graham Hodges, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "David Ruggles was a friend to Frederick Douglass, the first full-time black activist and a lead conductor on the Underground Railroad," 14 Feb. 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'erudition.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.