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Ethnology: meaning, definitions and examples

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ethnology

 

[ ɛθˈnɒlədʒi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

social science

Ethnology is the comparative and analytical study of cultures. It investigates the cultural differences and similarities among various groups of people. Ethnologists aim to understand cultural phenomena in their broader historical and social contexts. By examining customs, beliefs, and practices, ethnology provides insights into the complexities of human societies. This discipline often overlaps with anthropology and sociology, demonstrating how cultural patterns shape human behavior.

Synonyms

cultural anthropology, cultural studies, social anthropology

Examples of usage

  • Ethnology helps us understand cultural diversity.
  • The ethnology department conducts field research.
  • Her interest in ethnology guided her travels.
  • Ethnology reveals hidden cultural narratives.

Translations

Translations of the word "ethnology" in other languages:

🇵🇹 etnologia

🇮🇳 जनजातीय अध्ययन

🇩🇪 Ethnologie

🇮🇩 etnologi

🇺🇦 етнологія

🇵🇱 etnologia

🇯🇵 民族学

🇫🇷 ethnologie

🇪🇸 etnología

🇹🇷 etnoloji

🇰🇷 민족학

🇸🇦 علم الأعراق

🇨🇿 etnologie

🇸🇰 etnológia

🇨🇳 民族学

🇸🇮 etnologija

🇮🇸 þjóðfræði

🇰🇿 этнология

🇬🇪 ეთნოლოგია

🇦🇿 etnologiya

🇲🇽 etnología

Word origin

The term 'ethnology' originated in the late 18th century, derived from the Greek words 'ethnos', meaning 'folk' or 'nation', and 'logia', which translates to 'study of' or 'science'. Early ethnologists sought to categorize and understand the various cultures and societies encountered through exploration and colonial expansion. Over time, ethnology evolved as a distinct discipline within the social sciences, becoming more focused on the comparative aspects of cultures rather than merely documenting them. It became prominent in the 19th century, influenced by thinkers like Edward Burnett Tylor and Franz Boas, who emphasized the importance of culture in understanding human behavior. Today, ethnology continues to be integral to understanding global diversity and the impact of culture on social structures.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,579, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.