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academic
This word carries a duality of prestige and sterility. When used to describe a person or an institution, it suggests a high level of intellectual achievement and a commitment to the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake. It evokes an atmosphere of libraries, lectures, and peer-reviewed research. Conversely, when used to describe an argument or a point, it often implies a frustrating lack of real-world application. In this sense, calling something academic is a way of dismissing it as a mental exercise that has no impact on the actual situation at hand.
Countable when referring to the individual people who work as scholars or professors in higher education.
Meanings
Relating to education and scholarship rather than practical or vocational skills.
"The university is known for its rigorous academic standards."
Of no practical relevance; theoretical or moot.
"The question of who would have won the war is purely academic now."
A teacher or scholar in a college or university.
"The panel consisted of three leading academics from Oxford."