Polymath

n.capable, thoughtfulformal

What it means

A person with substantial knowledge or ability across many fields.

Reach for it when praising demonstrated breadth of learning rather than simple curiosity

The polymath connected textile dyes, trade history, and river chemistry in one lecture.

playful
multi-hyphenate
when a contemporary person holds several creative or professional roles
not when Multi-hyphenate describes roles and careers, not breadth of knowledge.
warm
Renaissance person
for someone accomplished across arts, sciences, and practical pursuits
not when The phrase carries a European historical frame and can become loose praise.
warm
versatile thinker
if flexible reasoning across domains is the quality being praised
not when Versatile thinker does not establish substantive expertise in those domains.
professional
generalist
when breadth across functions matters more than deep specialization
not when A generalist may know enough to coordinate without mastering many fields.
formal
erudite person
when extensive learning and reading are clear
not when Erudition may be concentrated in one broad scholarly tradition.
literary
universal scholar
for extraordinary learning spanning most knowledge of an era
not when Universal scholar is a grand historical label and too strong for ordinary versatility.

true polymath
The true polymath moved from botany to architecture without losing rigor.
modern polymath
A modern polymath may combine code, music, and public policy.
celebrated polymath
The celebrated polymath donated both instruments and scientific papers.

The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.