Word
smithsonian
Phoneticssmith·so·ni·an
/smɪˈsoʊniən/
Definitions
01the institution
n. a large group of museums and research centres in the U.S., often called 'the Smithsonian'.
n. The Smithsonian Institution, a complex of museums and research facilities established by the U.S. government in 1846.
“We spent the whole day at the Smithsonian looking at old aeroplanes and space rockets.”
“The Smithsonian remains the world's largest museum and research complex, housing millions of artefacts across its various galleries in Washington, D.C.”
American English
Usage
Usually used with the definite article 'the' when referring to the institution.
02related to the institution or founder
adj. related to the Smithsonian Institution or its founder, James Smithson.
adj. Of or pertaining to the Smithsonian Institution or to James Smithson, the British scientist whose bequest founded it.
“The Smithsonian collection includes many rare items from American history.”
“The curator discussed the Smithsonian mission to increase and diffuse knowledge through public exhibitions and scientific research.”
Formal
Usage
Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun.
Real-World Examples
“His latest projects include Dataland, an immersive AI art museum in Los Angeles, and an installation at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.” Scan code
englishreference.com/q/smithsonian