academic academic /ˌækəˈdɛmɪk/

adjective

1. () Associated with academia or an academy  ( academic )
   associated with academia or an academy
    The academic curriculum
   the academic curriculum
    Academic gowns
   academic gowns
   
2. () Hypothetical or theoretical and not expected to produce an immediate or practical result  ( academic )
   hypothetical or theoretical and not expected to produce an immediate or practical result
    An academic discussion
   an academic discussion
    An academic question
   an academic question
   
3. () Marked by a narrow focus on or display of learning especially its trivial aspects  ( donnish , pedantic , academic )
   marked by a narrow focus on or display of learning especially its trivial aspects
   

noun

1. () An educator who works at a college or university  ( academician , faculty member , academic )
   an educator who works at a college or university