View synonyms for ethnology

ethnology

[ eth-nol-uh-jee ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a branch of anthropology that analyzes cultures, especially in regard to their historical development and the similarities and dissimilarities between them.
(formerly) a branch of cultural anthropology dealing with the origin, distribution, and distinguishing characteristics of human societies.

ethnology

/ ˌɛθnəˈlɒdʒɪk; ɛθˈnɒlədʒɪ /

the branch of anthropology that deals with races and peoples, their relations to one another, their origins, and their distinctive characteristics

ethnology

The study of contemporary cultures , in order to develop a theoretical framework for analyzing human society. Cultural anthropologists generally study societies by living among the people, observing, interviewing, and participating in their activities. More than simply describing the customs of these societies, anthropologists attempt to uncover underlying patterns and structures of cultural characteristics, such as language, mythology , gender roles , symbols (see also symbol ), and rituals.

eth·no·log·i·cal [eth-n, uh, -, loj, -i-k, uh, l], ethno·logic adjective
ethno·logi·cal·ly adverb
eth·nolo·gist noun

First recorded in 1835–45; ethno- + -logy

How does ethnology compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

For instance, the Bureau of Ethnology targeted Native Americans in the 19th century.

Celtic ethnology and philology (see Celt) are still in the "age of discussion."

Recognized scientists may learn of them by addressing the author through the Director of the Bureau of Ethnology.

Its ethnology belongs to the different countries which it dignified by its valour, or dishonoured by its profligacy.

At the same time I should be glad to direct the attention of some investigator to their ethnology.

The foot of the hill, and the hill itself, are important points of difference in Indian ethnology.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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