plural. Living or modern-day languages (often contrasted with ancient languages, esp. classical Latin and Greek) as a subject of study; spec. the…

English language or literature as a subject of study or examination. Cf. compounds 2a(a).

the study of Celtic languages, culture, history, etc., esp. as an academic subject or course.

the study of religion or religions as an academic discipline.

English Literature, considered as an academic subject of study.

The mechanical arts or applied sciences collectively. Also: these as an area of study; a subject involving many arts or sciences.

the process of running a business, now esp. as the subject of a programme of study at an institution of higher education; cf. M.B.A. n. at M, n.…

English language, esp. as an academic subject.

the analysis of the structure and conduct of business, as an academic discipline.

The study of history-writing, esp. as an academic discipline.

U.S., Canadian, and Indian English. In plural. Reading, thinking, and study as opposed to technical or practical work.

the academic study of the causes of conflict and other matters relating to the establishment or maintenance of peace.

education in religious matters; (in later use also) religion taught as a school subject; abbreviated RE.

the study of Asian cultures, languages, history, etc., esp. as an academic discipline.

instruction in religious matters; (in later use also) religion taught as a school subject (cf. religious education n.); abbreviated RI.

knowledge about religious matters; (in later use also) religion taught as a school subject (cf. religious education n.); abbreviated RK.

the study of African or African-American culture, history, etc., esp. as an academic subject or course.

analysis of the mass media; study of the media as an academic discipline.

the study of gender (sense 3b) as an academic discipline.