definitions

hermeneutics

[ hur-muh-noo-tiks, -nyoo- ]
/ ˌhɜr məˈnu tɪks, -ˈnyu- /
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noun (used with a singular verb)

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

RELATED WORDS

exploration, investigation, interpretation, revealing, exegetics

Nearby words

hermaphroditism, hermaphroditus, hermatype, hermeneutic, hermeneutical, hermeneutics, hermes, hermes trismegistus, hermetic, hermetically, hermeticism

Origin of hermeneutics

First recorded in 1730–40; see origin at hermeneutic, -ics
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for hermeneutics

British Dictionary definitions for hermeneutics

hermeneutics

/ (ˌhɜːmɪˈnjuːtɪks) /

noun (functioning as singular)

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

Word Origin for hermeneutics

C18: from Greek hermēneutikos expert in interpretation, from hermēneuein to interpret, from hermēneus interpreter, of uncertain origin
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for hermeneutics

hermeneutics

n.

1737, from hermeneutic; also see -ics.

Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper