doctorate
UK: ˈdɒktərət | US: ˈdɑːktərət
n. the highest degree awarded by a university, typically involving original research and a dissertation.
The word "doctorate" traces back to the Latin doctor (meaning "teacher" or "learned person"), derived from docere ("to teach"). The suffix -ate (from Latin -atus) denotes a state or function, often used in academic titles (e.g., "graduate"). Originally, a "doctor" was a title for esteemed scholars in medieval universities, and "doctorate" emerged to specify the degree itself—reflecting the transition from a role (teacher) to a formal qualification.
She earned her doctorate in molecular biology after five years of research.
The university requires a published thesis to award a doctorate.
His doctorate focused on climate change impacts in coastal regions.
Many professors hold a doctorate in their field of expertise.
Completing a doctorate demands rigorous academic dedication.