English Reference
verb · noun

SAT

v. · n.
US /ˈsæt/ UK /sˈæt/ sat

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    v.the past tense of the verb 'sit'.

    v.the past tense and past participle form of the intransitive verb 'sit'.

    Simple

    We sat on the park bench for an hour and watched the birds.

    In context

    The delegates sat in silence as the chairperson outlined the proposed changes to the organization's bylaws.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    n.a standard test that students in the US take to get into college.

    n.Initialism of Scholastic Aptitude Test; a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States.

    Simple

    She spent the whole summer studying so she could get a high score on her SAT.

    In context

    Many universities have moved toward test-optional policies, reducing the historical emphasis placed on a student's SAT results during the admissions process.

    Usage

    Usually written in all capitals; often used in the plural (SATs) when referring to the testing process generally.

    entrance examstandardized test
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate British English

    n.national tests taken by school children in the UK to check their progress.

    n.Initialism of Statutory Assessment Tests; national curriculum assessments used in primary schools in England.

    Simple

    The children were a bit nervous before starting their Key Stage 2 SATs.

    In context

    Educational researchers often debate whether the pressure of the SATs negatively impacts the well-being of primary school pupils in the UK.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the plural form 'SATs' in British English.

    national curriculum tests
  4. 04 A2 Elementary

    n.a short way of writing Saturday.

    n.Abbreviation for Saturday; used primarily in calendars, schedules, and informal notes.

    Simple

    The shop is open Mon–Fri 9:00 to 5:00 and Sat 10:00 to 2:00.

    In context

    The itinerary lists the departure for Sat morning, though the exact time remains subject to the airline's final confirmation.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated