anthropology
noun
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The Origin of Anthropology
The word anthropology dates back to the late 16th century, but it was not until the 19th century that it was applied to the academic discipline that now bears its name. In the United States, this field of study is typically divided into four distinct branches: physical (or biological) anthropology, archaeology, cultural (or social) anthropology, and linguistic anthropology.
Anthropology is from the New Latin word anthropologia (“the study of humanity”) and shares its ultimate root in Greek, anthrōpos (“human being”), with a number of other words in English, such as anthropomorphize, philanthropy, and misanthrope.
Examples of anthropology in a Sentence
Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 Apr. 2026
His attorney, Ava Benach, said Vedam hopes to live with a relative in Sacramento and has been offered a spot in Oregon State University’s doctoral program in applied anthropology.
—Mark Scolforo, Los Angeles Times, 2 Apr. 2026
In forensic anthropology, this conclusion typically follows analysis of bone condition, degradation and other physical markers that help specialists estimate how long remains have been interred or stored.
—Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Mar. 2026
Their research helped reshape anthropology, psychology and evolutionary biology.
—Mireya Mayor, The Conversation, 27 Mar. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Anthropology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anthropology. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.
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