Past tense of major; to specialize in a particular subject as one's principal field of study in college or university.
From Latin maior meaning 'greater'. The academic sense emerged in American English in the late 19th century, referring to the greater emphasis placed on one subject area.
The concept of 'majoring' is uniquely American - most other educational systems require students to choose their specialization before entering university. This flexibility reflects American ideals about self-determination and second chances.
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