learners

"Learners" is the plural form of the noun "learner" — a straightforward word with a couple of closely related but distinct uses. It refers to people who are in the process of gaining knowledge or a skill.

1nounpeople gaining knowledge or skills

A learner is someone who is studying or practicing something in order to get better at it. It can refer to students in a classroom, but also to anyone picking up a new skill — cooking, coding, a language, anything. When you say 'learners', you are talking about a group of these people.

education, everyday language · Modern, widely used

The course is designed for learners who have no previous experience with computers.

All learners in the class were given a practice worksheet.

Young learners often pick up new languages faster than adults.

2nounpeople learning to drive

In British English especially, a 'learner' (or 'learner driver') is someone who is learning to drive a car but has not yet passed their driving test. You will often see an 'L plate' — a red letter L — on cars driven by learners.

driving, everyday language (British English) · Modern, widely used in British English

Learners must be accompanied by a qualified driver at all times.

The road was busy with learners practising their parking.

She has been a learner for six months and is almost ready for her test.

3nounfigurativecurious or open-minded people (figurative)

Sometimes 'learners' is used more broadly and figuratively to describe people who have an open, curious mindset — people who are always willing to grow and improve, not just in school but in life.

business, personal development · Modern, widely used · figurative

Great leaders are lifelong learners who never stop asking questions.

The company values learners — people who are curious and eager to improve.

Being a learner means staying humble and open to new ideas.