anthropology
UK[ˌænθrəˈpɒlədʒi]US[ˌænθrəˈpɑːlədʒi]
n
The scientific study of human beings, especially of their origin, development, customs, and beliefs.
Morpheme Breakdown
anthrop
o
logy
anthrop
human
o
connecting vowel
logy
study of
Etymology
The word 'anthropology' is a modern compound formed from ancient Greek elements. Its first part, anthrōpos, is a term of uncertain deeper origin, possibly meaning 'he who looks up', contrasting man with other creatures. The suffix -logia derives from logos, which encompasses the concepts of speech, reason, and principle. Thus, the literal construction yields 'the study or discourse concerning humankind'. Coined in the early 16th century, it initially referred to the study of human nature in a theological or philosophical sense. Over the following centuries, its meaning specialized to denote the modern scientific discipline focused on the holistic study of humanity across time and cultures, from biological evolution to social structures.
Analysis
Structure: anthrop (human) + o (connecting vowel) + logy (study of)
- anthrop: From Greek anthrōpos, meaning 'human being, man'.
- o: A connecting vowel, often used in Greek-derived compounds.
- logy: From Greek -logia, from logos meaning 'word, reason, discourse', used to denote a branch of knowledge or study.
Examples
She decided to major in anthropology to better understand diverse cultural practices.
Biological anthropology explores the evolutionary origins of humans.
His fieldwork in anthropology involved living with a remote community for two years.