Yales

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The plural form referring to multiple members or affiliates of an Ivy League university known for its prestigious academic programs and historic campus that is often simply called by its name
2. Denoting a group associated with an elite American university recognized for its rigorous educational standards and distinguished alumni network
3. Indicating more than one individual connected to a renowned institution of higher learning famous for its traditions, resources, and scholarly reputation

Etymology: "Yales" is the plural of "yale," which is what the system calls it: a noun meaning a person connected to Yale University. The singular "yale" is named after the university, so the plural simply refers to its students, graduates, or members, and the meaning was built on the name rather than the other way around. The name itself is uncertain. One possibility traces it to Hebrew "ya'el," meaning "mountain goat," though this link is not firmly established. A related form appears in Latin as "eale," a mythical beast with a long movable horn, which some have connected to the same origin.