study definition

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1. To apply the mind to; to read and examine for the purpose of learning and understanding; as, to study law or theology; to study languages.

2. To consider attentively; to examine closely; as, to study the work of nature. "Study thyself; what rank or what degree The wise Creator has ordained for thee." (Dryden)

3. To form or arrange by previous thought; to con over, as in committing to memory; as, to study a speech.

4. To make an object of study; to aim at sedulously; to devote one's thoughts to; as, to study the welfare of others; to study variety in composition. "For their heart studieth destruction." (Prov. Xxiv. 2)

Origin: OE. Studie, L. Studium, akin to studere to study; possibly akin to Gr. Haste, zeal, to hasten; cf. OF. Estudie, estude, F. Etude. Cf. Etude, Student, Studio, Study, v. I.

1. A setting of the mind or thoughts upon a subject; hence, application of mind to books, arts, or science, or to any subject, for the purpose of acquiring knowledge. "Hammond . . . Spent thirteen hours of the day in study." (Bp. Fell) "Study gives strength to the mind; conversation, grace." (Sir W. Temple)

2. Mental occupation; absorbed or thoughtful attention; meditation; contemplation. "Just men they seemed, and all their study bent To worship God aright, and know his works." (Milton)

3. Any particular branch of learning that is studied; any object of attentive consideration. "The Holy Scriptures, especially the new Testament, are her daily study." (Law) "The proper study of mankind is man." (Pope)

4. A building or apartment devoted to study or to literary work. "His cheery little study."

5. A representation or rendering of any object or scene intended, not for exhibition as an original work of art, but for the information, instruction, or assistance of the maker; as, a study of heads or of hands for a figure picture.

6. A piece for special practice. See Etude.