sophomore
UK: ˈsɒfəmɔː | US: ˈsɑːfəmɔːr
n. a student in the second year of high school or college.
The word "sophomore" originates from Greek roots but was formed in English. It combines "sopho-" (from Greek sophos, meaning "wise") and "-more" (a playful alteration of Greek mōros, meaning "foolish"). This ironic pairing reflects the transitional stage of a second-year student—no longer a novice ("freshman") but not yet fully wise. The term emerged in 17th-century Cambridge University to mock students who acted overly confident despite limited experience.
She joined the debate team as a sophomore.
Sophomores must declare their majors by spring semester.
The sophomore class organized a charity fundraiser.
He felt more confident in his sophomore year.
The novel explores a sophomore’s struggles with identity.