learning curve

noun

1
: a curve plotting performance against practice
especially : one graphing decline in unit costs with cumulative output
2
: the course of progress made in learning something

Examples of learning curve in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Rushing went through a learning curve juggling his defensive and offensive responsibilities, and navigating intense online scrutiny of his outbursts on the field and in the dugout. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 21 Oct. 2026 Meanwhile, the festival’s international talent offered their perspective on the learning curve of filmmaking. — Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 21 Oct. 2026 Schottenheimer mentioned in training camp that Lawrence had a steeper learning curve because of how different his system was at the University of Central Florida compared to what he’s being asked to do in Dallas. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Oct. 2026 The Blues will be willing to live with Jiříček’s learning curve. — Jeremy Rutherford, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for learning curve

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of learning curve was in 1903

Rhymes for learning curve

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Browse Nearby Words

learning
learning curve
learning difference
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Cite this Entry

“Learning curve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/learning%20curve. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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