horology

American  

[haw-rol-uh-jee, hoh-] / hɔˈrɒl ə dʒi, hoʊ- /

noun

1. the art or science of making timepieces or of measuring time.

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horology British  

/ ˌhɒrəˈlɒdʒɪk, hɒˈrɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. the art or science of making timepieces or of measuring time

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horology Scientific  

/ hô-rŏl′ə-jē /

1. The science of measuring time.

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Other Word Forms

• horologic adjective

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

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

In this lofty corner of horology, six-figure timepieces have become common.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 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

Their clients were mostly tradesfolk in the horology business, for whom aligning their wares with Greenwich was a matter of professional pride.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2017

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