horology
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of horology
1810–20; < Greek hōro- (combining form of hṓra hour ) + -logy
Explanation
Horology is the scientific study of time. Specifically, horology involves the measurement of time and the making of clocks. You need a small leap of imagination to see hour in horology, but if you do, you've pretty much nailed the meaning: it refers to the study of time and the art of making timepieces. In horology, time is studied scientifically, just as a geologist studies the earth and a biologist studies life. Horology is very practical, since it involves the design and construction of clocks, watches, and other devices for measuring time. Someone who studies horology is a horologist.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The French brand is a bit of an underdog in the field of horology.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 20, 2026
Time to Plant the Clock: Since 1903, the Scottish capital has maintained the Floral Clock, a landmark that mixes horology and horticulture.
From New York Times ● Jun. 6, 2024
Conservator Francis Brodie is an expert in horology - the science of clocks, watches and timekeepers.
From BBC ● Oct. 27, 2023
“I have other interests that I’ll have more time to explore: food/cooking and my ‘Mitch in the Kitch’ series, travel, golf, horology.
From Seattle Times ● Jul. 14, 2022
Hugo had come to understand the connection between horology and magic that his father had talked about.
From "The Invention of Hugo Cabret" by Brian Selznick
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
