faculty
She has a faculty for learning languages quickly.
She naturally learns languages very fast.
An inherent mental or physical power or ability.
He has a faculty for remembering names.
He naturally remembers names well.
The faculty of sight is essential for pilots.
Good vision is crucial for pilots.
Often used in academic or professional contexts to describe innate skills.
The teaching staff of a university or college.
The faculty meeting was held in the auditorium.
The professors gathered in the auditorium for a meeting.
She joined the faculty of Harvard University in 2020.
She became a professor at Harvard University in 2020.
Refers collectively to professors and instructors, not individual staff.
A department or division within a university or college.
She teaches in the Faculty of Law.
She is a professor in the law department.
Common in British English; less common in American English.
Collocations
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Distinguish meanings by context
If the word refers to people (e.g., 'the faculty voted'), it means professors. If it refers to an ability (e.g., 'a faculty for music'), it means a natural skill.
Gold Rule
Plural forms
The plural of 'faculty' (for abilities) is 'faculties.' For staff, it is also 'faculties' (e.g., 'the university's faculties').
Word Origin
From Old French 'faculté' (ability, skill), from Latin 'facultas' (power, ability, means), from 'facilis' (easy).
Usage Notes
Avoid confusing the two main meanings: innate ability vs. academic staff. Context usually clarifies which is intended.