hermeneutics

[ hur-muh-noo-tiks, -nyoo- ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. the science of interpretation, especially of the Scriptures.
2. the branch of theology that deals with the principles of Biblical exegesis.

hermeneutics

/ ˌhɜːmɪˈnjuːtɪks /

noun

1. the science of interpretation, esp of Scripture
2. the branch of theology that deals with the principles and methodology of exegesis
3. philosophy
   1. the study and interpretation of human behaviour and social institutions
   2. (in existentialist thought) discussion of the purpose of life

Word History and Origins

Origin of hermeneutics¹

First recorded in 1730–40; hermeneutic, -ics

Word History and Origins

Origin of hermeneutics¹

C18: from Greek hermēneutikos expert in interpretation, from hermēneuein to interpret, from hermēneus interpreter, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

It is no longer a question of hermeneutics, no longer a struggle between abstruse dogmas of rival churches.

From Project Gutenberg

Logic Proper: The criteria of truth; species of knowledge, and general rules of criticism and hermeneutics.

From Project Gutenberg

The term Hermeneutics (Greek, hermeneuo, to interpret) is commonly employed to denote the principles of scriptural interpretation.

From Project Gutenberg

Hermeneutics is, therefore, the science of interpretation; Exegesis, the application of this science to the word of God.

From Project Gutenberg

Such a right he could never have derived from humanity, or philosophy, or hermeneutics.

From Project Gutenberg