campus

"Campus" is a straightforward word with one core meaning and a couple of natural extensions from it. It comes from Latin, meaning "field" or "open ground," and today it is used mainly in education and, more broadly, to describe the grounds of any large organization.

1noununiversity or college grounds

This is the most common meaning. A campus is the whole area of land that a university or college sits on — the buildings, gardens, paths, sports fields, and everything in between. When students say they live 'on campus,' they mean they live inside that area, usually in student housing.

education · Modern, widely used

The university campus is beautiful in autumn, with trees lining every path.

She decided to live on campus during her first year so she could meet other students easily.

The library is right in the center of campus, so it is easy to find.

2nounschool grounds (broader use)

The word is not only for universities. Many high schools and large schools also use 'campus' to refer to their grounds and buildings. It gives a sense of a self-contained place where learning happens.

education · Modern, widely used

Students are not allowed to leave the school campus during lunch.

The new sports hall was built on the far side of the campus.

Security guards check everyone who enters the campus.

3nouncompany or organization grounds

Big companies — especially technology companies — often use the word 'campus' to describe their headquarters or office complex. Think of it as a large, planned area with multiple buildings, green spaces, and facilities, all belonging to one organization.

business / corporate · Modern, increasingly common

The tech company's campus has its own gym, restaurants, and even a cinema for employees.

Thousands of people work at the corporate campus just outside the city.

The new hospital campus will include a research center and a medical school.