Learned (pronounced “LER-ned”) is an adjective meaning highly educated or knowledgeable, especially through years of study and reading. A learned professor has spent decades mastering their subject. A learned scholar has accumulated deep knowledge and knows how to think critically about complex ideas.

The word suggests wisdom gained through sustained effort and intellectual curiosity. You might call someone learned if they can discuss philosophy, recite poetry, explain scientific principles, and connect ideas across different fields of knowledge.

Learned often appears in formal contexts. A judge might write a learned opinion that shows deep understanding of law and precedent. A learned society is an organization of experts who advance knowledge in their field.

Notice that being learned isn't about memorizing trivia. It's about understanding how things connect and being able to explain difficult concepts clearly. People often become learned through years of reading, thinking, and discussing ideas.

The word can also be a verb (pronounced “LERND”), the past tense of learn: “Yesterday I learned how to solve equations.” But when describing a person's deep knowledge, use the “LER-ned” pronunciation.