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anthropology

n.
US //ˌænθɹəˈpɑɫədʒi// UK //ˌænθɹəpˈɒlədʒi// an·thro·pol·o·gy
  1. 1 study of humans and culture (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic Science

    the study of humans, their origins, and the different ways people live in societies around the world.

    the scientific and humanistic study of humanity, typically divided into cultural, linguistic, biological, and archaeological branches.

    Example

    She decided to study anthropology because she was fascinated by how different cultures celebrate weddings.

    Example

    Cultural anthropology provides a framework for understanding how social structures and belief systems vary across different global communities.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the academic field.

    Teacher's tip

    While it is a C1 word, it is essential for students entering university or reading academic texts about society.
  2. 2 religious study of humanity (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Academic Formal Technical Religion

    the study of what it means to be human in relation to God or a religion.

    the study of the nature and condition of humanity within a theological or philosophical framework.

    Example

    The professor gave a lecture on Christian anthropology and the concept of the soul.

    Example

    The seminar explored the nuances of theological anthropology, specifically focusing on the intersection of free will and divine grace.

    Usage

    Usually requires a qualifying adjective like 'theological' or 'Christian' to distinguish it from the social science.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a highly specialized sense; most learners will only encounter the social science definition.
    • theological anthropology
Origin

From New Latin anthropologia, from Ancient Greek ἄνθρωπος (ánthrōpos, “human, mankind”) + -λογία (-logía). By surface analysis, anthropo- + -logy.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

Last updated June 20, 2026