[48] From a School of Fish to a School of Thought: Fascinating Collective Noun Examples Explained

A collective noun is a special type of noun that refers to a group of people, animals, or things. One of the most commonly used collective nouns is "school".

When referring to a group of fish, the word "school" is used, such as "a school of fish". In this context, the word defines a large group of fishes swimming together, navigating the waters in synchrony. The purpose of swimming together is often related to safety in numbers, better food sourcing, or finding mates. Fish species like sardines, anchovies, or herring are typically known for their organized schooling behavior.

However, the collective noun "school" is not only limited to fish. It can be used to describe a collection of other animals such as dolphins or sharks, where you often hear about "a school of dolphins" or "a school of sharks". In both cases, these animals show a cooperative behavior and stay together, usually for safety, hunting, or traveling long distances.

Beyond animals, "school" is also used as a collective noun for groups of individuals. Most commonly, it refers to a formal educational institution, like "a school of students". This definition encompasses a number of learners gathering together for instruction and learning under the guidance of teachers or professors.

The word "school" can also be used creatively in other ways to describe groups of people, often with a common interest or purpose. For example, a "school of thought" refers to a group of people who share similar beliefs, ideologies, or theories. Similarly, "a school of artists" would refer to a collective group of artistic individuals sharing a similar style, technique, or influence.

In conclusion, the collective noun "school" is versatile and can be used to describe a range of groups or gatherings, from fish swimming together to students learning together. Its flexibility gives it a wide range of uses in the English language, reflecting the diversity of collective behavior among different species and communities.

11/48

School Of Education

A school of education refers to an institution or department within a university or college that specializes in the study, research, and training in the field of education. It serves as a dedicated hub where students, faculty, and staff come together to p...

Example sentence

"The School of Education is dedicated to preparing future teachers for successful careers in the classroom."

12/48

School Of Eels

A school of eels refers to a captivating phenomena where a group of these sleek and elusive creatures congregates or travels together. This unique collective noun phrase perfectly captures the essence of the strangely alluring nature of eels and their int...

Example sentence

"A school of eels gracefully swam through the seaweed, their sleek bodies shining in the sunlight."

13/48

School Of Engineering

A school of engineering is a collective noun phrase that refers to a group or community of individuals who are studying, teaching, or working in the field of engineering. It describes an educational institution or department within a larger educational or...

Example sentence

"The School of Engineering provides students with a comprehensive curriculum in various fields of study."

14/48

School of Fish

A school of fish refers to a fascinating and harmonious spectacle provided by a large group of fish swimming together in a coordinated and synchronized manner. Resembling a well-orchestrated dance, these aquatic creatures move as one unit, creating mesmer...

Example sentence

"I watched in awe as a school of fish gracefully swam through the crystal-clear waters."

15/48

School Of Girls

A school of girls refers to a group or gathering of young female students. From varying age groups and backgrounds, the girls collectively engage in learning, molding their character, and fostering impactful connections. Within the school environment, the...

Example sentence

"A school of girls intently listens to their teacher, eager to learn."

16/48

School Of Harpists

A School of Harpists refers to a gathering or assembly of harp players who have come together to collectively showcase their talent, hone their skills, or impart knowledge through teaching or learning. The noun school in this context suggests a place wher...

Example sentence

"I was amazed by the beautiful music created by a large School of Harpists during the concert last night."

17/48

School Of Herrings

A school of herrings is a collective noun phrase that refers to a large group of herrings swimming together in unison. The term school is used to highlight these fish's synchronized movement and tightly knit formation. It is characterized by the perfectly...

Example sentence

"A school of herrings swam elegantly in unison, their silver bodies glistening in the sunlight."

18/48

School Of Hippos

A school of hippos is a remarkable collective noun phrase used to describe a group of these majestic and awe-inspiring semi-aquatic mammals that deftly navigates the waters of rivers and lakes. Delighting and intriguing wildlife enthusiasts, this sight is...

Example sentence

"As the safari jeep approached the watering hole, a school of hippos emerged from the murky depths."

19/48

School of Jellyfish

A school of jellyfish is a mesmerizing spectacle that captures the imagination and curiosity of both nature enthusiasts and casual onlookers. It refers to a group or collective noun phrase used to describe a gathering of jellyfish swimming together in har...

Example sentence

"I observed a mesmerizing sight as a school of jellyfish gracefully glided through the tranquil ocean waters."

20/48

School Of Kids

A 'School of Kids' refers to a group of children gathered together for educational purposes, typically in a formal setting such as a classroom or school environment. This collective noun phrase aptly portrays the dynamic and energetic nature of a group of...

Example sentence

"The school of kids gathered in the cafeteria for lunch, eagerly chattering and sharing their stories."

Some of these collective noun phrases are traditional, while others showcase a touch of creativity. Choose the one that best fits your narrative or discussion.

Collective Nouns That Start with S

Explore 383 more collective nouns that start with 'S'

Since you liked 'School Of Kids'. you might also enjoy these other collective nouns starting with 'S'

Explore More 'S' Nouns

Top Searched Words

Test Your Collective Noun Knowledge!

Do you think you know your collective nouns? Take our fun and educational collective nouns quiz to find out!

Discover fascinating collective nouns for animals, people, things, and more. Challenge your friends and family to see who can score the highest!

Click the button below to start the quiz now!

Take the Quiz

Collective Nouns Starting With A, B, C...

Select a letter to view all the collective nouns that start with that letter.

'A' has an "Argument of Wizards". 'B' has a "Blessing of Unicorns". 'C' has a "Charm of Hummingbirds".

Discover & share them all with your friends! They'll be impressed. Enjoy!

Collective nouns starting with A
Collective nouns starting with B
Collective nouns starting with C
Collective nouns starting with D
Collective nouns starting with E
Collective nouns starting with F
Collective nouns starting with G
Collective nouns starting with H
Collective nouns starting with I
Collective nouns starting with J
Collective nouns starting with K
Collective nouns starting with L
Collective nouns starting with M
Collective nouns starting with N
Collective nouns starting with O
Collective nouns starting with P
Collective nouns starting with Q
Collective nouns starting with R
Collective nouns starting with S
Collective nouns starting with T
Collective nouns starting with U
Collective nouns starting with V
Collective nouns starting with W
Collective nouns starting with Y
Collective nouns starting with Z

Collective Nouns By Grade Level

By grade 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th