hermeneutics

American  

[hur-muh-noo-tiks, -nyoo-] / ˌhɜr məˈnu tɪks, -ˈnyu- /

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.

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hermeneutics British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of hermeneutics

First recorded in 1730–40; see origin at hermeneutic, -ics

Compare meaning

How does hermeneutics compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• hermeneutics vs. exegesis

Explanation

Hermeneutics is a fancy word for interpretation. If you're interested in understanding the Bible on a deeper level, you might want to try hermeneutics. In Greek mythology, Hermes was the God of many things, including language and writing. He was every English teacher's dream. The word hermeneutics means the interpretation of language, whether written or spoken. Generally, hermeneutics is an activity that interests biblical scholars, and the word is sometimes used in philosophy as well. If you enjoy sitting in a library poring over the same book for hours from every angle, then you will love hermeneutics.

Example Sentences

In the study of hermeneutics, this is a technique known as proof texting: starting with a particular belief and working backward to find a biblical passage that seems to support this idea.

From Salon • Aug. 27, 2023

In fact, hermeneutics challenges the basic idea of things having one absolute meaning.

From Textbooks • Jun. 15, 2022

Sharpton was at the lectern letting his words roar and flow, telling stories that circled back on each other in the familiar hermeneutics of black preachers.

From Washington Post • Jun. 4, 2020

At the very end of her essay, she briefly, tantalisingly floats another possible approach, which is more concerned with creativity and repair than the so-called hermeneutics of suspicion.

From The Guardian • Mar. 21, 2020

But the sense by accommodation, as it is called by writers on hermeneutics, does not take liberties with the Sacred Text itself in the manner suggested by the advocates of depolarization.

From Chapters of Bible Study A Popular Introduction to the Study of the Sacred Scriptures by Heuser, Herman J.