metaphysics

meta·phys·ics

noun pl but singular in constr \-ˈfi-ziks\

Definition of METAPHYSICS

1

a (1) : a division of philosophy that is concerned with the fundamental nature of reality and being and that includes ontology, cosmology, and often epistemology (2) : ontology 2 b : abstract philosophical studies : a study of what is outside objective experience

2

: metaphysic 2

Origin of METAPHYSICS

Medieval Latin Metaphysica, title of Aristotle's treatise on the subject, from Greek (ta) meta (ta) physika, literally, the (works) after the physical (works); from its position in his collected works

First Known Use: 1569

Other Philosophy Terms

dialectic, dualism, epistemology, existentialism, ontology, sequitur, solipsism, transcendentalism