sociology

noun

so·​ci·​ol·​o·​gy ˌsō-sē-ˈä-lə-jē 

ˌsō-shē-

1

: the science of society, social institutions, and social relationships

specifically : the systematic study of the development, structure, interaction, and collective behavior of organized groups of human beings

2

: the scientific analysis of a social institution as a functioning whole and as it relates to the rest of society

3

: synecology

sociologist

ˌsō-sē-ˈä-lə-jist ˌsō-shē- 

noun

Examples of sociology in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Debbie Becher, a sociology professor at Barnard College (which is part of Columbia), told Morning Edition Tuesday that campus feels relatively safe and peaceful, unlike the portrayals of it on social media. —Rachel Treisman, NPR, 23 Apr. 2024

National reform efforts Brittany Friedman, a sociology professor at the University of Southern California, has tracked fines and fees nationwide, focusing specifically on pay-to-stay in Illinois and Connecticut. —Isabelle Kause, The Indianapolis Star, 22 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French sociologie, from socio- + -logie -logy

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sociology

• industrial sociology

Kids Definition

sociology

noun

so·​ci·​ol·​o·​gy ˌsō-sē-ˈäl-ə-jē 

ˌsō-shē-

: the science of society, social institutions, and social relationships

Medical Definition

sociology

noun

so·​ci·​ol·​o·​gy ˌsō-sē-ˈäl-ə-jē  ˌsō-shē- 

plural sociologies

: the science of society, social institutions, and social relationships

specifically : the systematic study of the development, structure, interaction, and collective behavior of organized groups of human beings