Definition

Proper noun An honorary institution in London, founded in 1768, with the purpose of cultivating and promoting the arts of painting, sculpture, and architecture in Britain. It is a prestigious society of artists and architects.

Usage

The term "Royal Academy" is used as a proper noun to refer specifically to this institution. It is often preceded by the definite article "the." * The exhibition at the Royal Academy features work by contemporary sculptors. * She was elected a member of the Royal Academy in 2010. * The Royal Academy's annual Summer Exhibition is a major event in the art world.

Advanced Usage

• The abbreviation RA is commonly used, especially after a name to denote membership.
  • Sir Joshua Reynolds, PRA (President of the Royal Academy).
  • The painting is by an RA.

Variants and Related Words

• Royal Academician (noun): A member of the Royal Academy.
  • Several Royal Academicians have their studios in London.
• Royal Academy of Arts: The full, formal name of the institution.

Synonyms

• Academy (in the specific context of arts institutions)
• Society (in the sense of a learned or professional body)

Related Phrases

• RA Schools: The teaching school of the Royal Academy.
  • He studied at the RA Schools.
• Summer Exhibition: The Royal Academy's famous open-submission art exhibition held annually.

Noun

1. an honorary academy in London (founded in 1768) intended to cultivate painting and sculpture and architecture in Britain