erudition

n. [ L. eruditio: cf. F. érudition. ] The act of instructing; the result of thorough instruction; the state of being erudite or learned; the acquisitions gained by extensive reading or study; particularly, learning in literature or criticism, as distinct from the sciences; scholarship. [ 1913 Webster ]

The management of a young lady's person is not be overlooked, but the erudition of her mind is much more to be regarded. Steele. [ 1913 Webster ]

The gay young gentleman whose erudition sat so easily upon him. Macaulay.

Syn. -- Literature; learning. See Literature. [ 1913 Webster ]