Anthropological: meaning, definitions and examples
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anthropological
[ ˌæn.θrə.pəˈlɒɡ.ɪ.kəl ]
study of humans
Anthropological refers to anything related to anthropology, which is the study of humans, their behavior, and societies. This includes cultural, social, physical, and archaeological aspects of human existence.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Anthropological research sheds light on the origins of social practices.
- The anthropological perspective is essential for understanding cultural diversity.
- Her anthropological findings contributed to the field of human evolution.
Word origin
The term 'anthropological' originates from the root 'anthropos,' a Greek word meaning 'human' or 'man.' This foundational concept was integrated into the scientific study of humanity during the Renaissance, as scholars began to explore not only the physical aspects of humans but also their social and cultural dimensions. As anthropology developed as a distinct field in the 19th century, the adjective 'anthropological' was coined to describe studies, theories, and discussions focused on human behavior, development, and societies. The field now encompasses numerous sub-disciplines, each examining different facets of human life and emphasizing the importance of a holistic understanding of humanity's past and present.