# anthropological

/ˌænθɹəpəˈɫɑdʒəkəɫ/ (US) · /ˌænθɹəpəlˈɒdʒɪkəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/anthropological
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

relating to the study of humans, their cultures, and how they live together. You use this to describe research or ideas about human history and society.

For teachers: relating to the study of human societies and cultures and their development. Often describes research methodologies involving participant observation or the comparative study of human evolution and social structures.

## Examples

- The museum has a large anthropological collection.
- The researcher spent two years living in the village to conduct an anthropological study of their local traditions.
- Modern anthropological theory often critiques the colonial perspectives that shaped early ethnographic accounts, seeking instead to amplify the voices of the communities being studied.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.