theory of mind

or The·o·ry of Mind

[ thee-uh-ree uhv mahynd, theer-ee ]

noun

, Psychology, Philosophy.

1. the ability to interpret one’s own and other people’s mental and emotional states, understanding that each person has unique motives, perspectives, etc. : ToM, TOM

Word History and Origins

Origin of theory of mind¹

First recorded in 1985–90