I. ˌbakəˈlȯrēə̇t, -lär- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Medieval Latin baccalaureatus, from baccalaureus advanced student, bachelor (alteration — influenced by Latin bacca berry & laureus laurel — of baccalarius dependent farmer, tenant, young clerk, advanced student) + Latin -atus -ate — more at bachelor
1. : the degree of bachelor conferred by universities and colleges
2.
a. : a religious or semireligious service held at many educational institutions the Sunday before commencement
b. : the sermon or address delivered at this service
II. adjective
: of or relating to the degree of bachelor or to the ceremonies attending the conferral of that degree
a baccalaureate degree is required for many jobs
the baccalaureate service
a baccalaureate address