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Anthropologist: meaning, definitions and examples

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anthropologist

 

[ˌanθrəˈpɒlədʒɪst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

study of human societies

Anthropologist is a person who studies human societies, their cultures, beliefs, and customs. They conduct research to understand various aspects of human behavior, such as social organization, language, and evolution.

Synonyms

cultural anthropologist, ethnologist, social scientist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
anthropologist

General term for someone who studies humanity, its cultures, and evolutionary aspects. Suitable for broad discussions or introductory explanations in anthropology.

  • As an anthropologist, Dr
  • Smith studies human behavior and societies
ethnologist

Describes someone who compares and analyzes different cultures, often through cross-cultural research. Useful in academic or comparative studies.

  • The ethnologist published a comparative study on marriage rituals in various cultures
social scientist

A broad term that encompasses professionals who study human society and social relationships. Appropriate for discussions that include various disciplines such as sociology, economics, political science, and anthropology.

  • As a social scientist, her research covers various aspects of human interactions and societal structures
cultural anthropologist

Refers to a specialist in cultural aspects of human societies, such as traditions, rituals, and social norms. Useful in discussions focusing on cultural behaviors and practices.

  • The cultural anthropologist spent years living with the tribe to understand their customs

Examples of usage

  • The anthropologist conducted fieldwork in a remote village to study their cultural traditions.
  • Anthropologists often collaborate with indigenous communities to preserve their cultural heritage.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines 'anthropos', meaning human in Greek, and 'logos', meaning study or reason.
  • It first appeared in English in the late 19th century, reflecting growing interest in human diversity.
  • Many other fields use 'logy', like biology or geology, which also means a type of study.

Cultural Significance

  • Anthropologists often immerse themselves in different cultures to gain deep understanding, a practice known as participant observation.
  • Cultural anthropology specifically looks at social practices, beliefs, and the economic aspects of various societies.
  • They often focus on issues of identity, migration, and globalization, which are increasingly relevant in today's world.

Famous Anthropologists

  • Margaret Mead was a groundbreaking figure known for her studies on youth and gender roles in South Pacific societies.
  • Claude Lévi-Strauss introduced structuralism, applying a method of analyzing cultural phenomena through underlying structures.
  • Bronislaw Malinowski set the standard for ethnographic fieldwork, emphasizing the importance of long-term engagement with communities.

Applications and Impact

  • Anthropological insights are crucial in addressing global issues such as immigration policies and social justice.
  • They work in various fields including education, public health, and international development, improving services and outreach.
  • Their research often influences art, literature, and media by providing authentic perspectives on different lifestyles.

Methods and Techniques

  • Fieldwork is the primary method, involving living among people being studied for extensive periods.
  • Interviews and surveys help gather qualitative data, enriching understanding of human behavior and social structures.
  • They use both qualitative and quantitative methods to create balanced insights about populations.

Translations

Translations of the word "anthropologist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 antropólogo

🇮🇳 मानवविज्ञानी

🇩🇪 Anthropologe

🇮🇩 antropolog

🇺🇦 антрополог

🇵🇱 antropolog

🇯🇵 人類学者

🇫🇷 anthropologue

🇪🇸 antropólogo

🇹🇷 antropolog

🇰🇷 인류학자

🇸🇦 عالم الأنثروبولوجيا

🇨🇿 antropolog

🇸🇰 antropológ

🇨🇳 人类学家

🇸🇮 antropolog

🇮🇸 mannfræðingur

🇰🇿 антрополог

🇬🇪 ანთროპოლოგი

🇦🇿 antropoloq

🇲🇽 antropólogo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,581, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.