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Ethnologist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ethnologist

[ษ›ฮธหˆnษ’lษ™dส’ษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

study of cultures

Ethnologist is a person who studies and analyzes the cultural practices, beliefs, and customs of different societies. They often conduct fieldwork to observe and document various aspects of a culture, such as language, traditions, rituals, and social structures. Ethnologists play a crucial role in understanding the diversity and complexity of human societies.

Synonyms

anthropologist, cultural researcher, sociologist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ethnologist

Used when referring to someone studying specific ethnic groups, their cultures, and their social structures. It places emphasis on the comparative study of cultures.

  • The ethnologist spent years living with the tribe to understand their way of life
  • Ethnologists often compare the rituals of different societies to find commonalities
anthropologist

This is a broad term used for someone studying human societies, cultures, and their development. It encompasses fields such as ethnology, archaeology, linguistics, and more.

  • The anthropologist discovered ancient artifacts that shed light on early human civilization
  • Anthropologists study how humans adapt to different environments
sociologist

Primarily used for someone studying societal structures, interactions, and institutions. Sociologists often focus on contemporary social issues and patterns.

  • The sociologist examined the effects of social media on modern communication
  • Sociologists study how societal norms influence individual behavior
cultural researcher

This term is used for someone focusing on specific cultural practices, beliefs, and values. It is less technical and can apply to academic and non-academic studies.

  • As a cultural researcher, she explored the impact of globalization on local traditions
  • Cultural researchers may analyze how festivals evolve over time

Examples of usage

  • An ethnologist traveled to a remote village to study the indigenous tribe living there.
  • The ethnologist's research shed light on the cultural heritage of the community.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Academic Field

  • Ethnology is a branch of anthropology focusing on comparative and analytical study of cultures.
  • Ethnologists often conduct fieldwork, immersing themselves in the cultures they study to gain firsthand experience and understanding.

Cultural Impact

  • Research by ethnologists has influenced social policies and practices by providing insights into cultural practices and social structures.
  • Ethnology has played a crucial role in promoting cultural preservation and highlighting the importance of diversity.

Famous Figures

  • Franz Boas, often called the 'Father of American Anthropology', emphasized the importance of cultural relativism and is a key figure in ethnology.
  • Margaret Meadโ€™s studies in the South Pacific challenged Western notions of gender and sexuality, showcasing the role of ethnologists in examining societal norms.

Modern Relevance

  • In today's globalized world, ethnologists study how cultures interact and change in response to technology and migration.
  • Digital ethnography has emerged as a fast-growing area, utilizing online platforms to understand cultural expressions in virtual spaces.

Origin of 'ethnologist'

Main points about word origin

  • The term combines 'ethnos', meaning people or nation in Greek, and '-logy', which means the study of.
  • First used in the early 19th century, it reflected a growing interest in understanding diverse cultures during the colonial period.

The term 'ethnologist' originated from the Greek words 'ethnos' (meaning 'people' or 'nation') and 'logos' (meaning 'study' or 'discourse'). It first appeared in the mid-19th century to describe scholars who focused on the comparative study of cultures and societies. Ethnologists have played a significant role in advancing our understanding of human diversity and cultural practices.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,336 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.