alma mater
Say it: AL-muh MAH-tuh /ˌælmə ˈmɑːtə/ · noun phrase
What “alma mater” means
The school, college or university you once attended.
More precisely: The school, college or university that someone attended.
Example: “He donated to his alma mater after the company went public.”
When to use it
Use it when talking fondly or formally about your former school or university, especially its traditions, reunions or graduates.
Similar words
old school, old university
Where it comes from
Latin, 'nourishing mother'.
Quick check
You return to the university where you studied for a reunion with your old classmates. What is that university to you?
your hometown or your alma mater?
Show the answer
your alma mater
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