theology

noun

the·​ol·​o·​gy thē-ˈä-lə-jē 

plural theologies

1

: the study of religious faith, practice, and experience

especially : the study of God and of God's relation to the world

2

a

: a theological theory or system

Thomist theology

a theology of atonement

b

: a distinctive body of theological opinion

Catholic theology

3

: a usually 4-year course of specialized religious training in a Roman Catholic major seminary

Examples of theology in a Sentence

He has an interest in theology and pastoral work.

The bishop was opposed to the group's theology.

Recent Examples on the Web

Though our congregations differ in theology and practice, we are united by enduring religious teachings that call upon us to care for the vulnerable, welcome the stranger, pursue justice, protect creation, and seek peace. — Killingly-Brooklyn Interfaith Council, Hartford Courant, 9 July 2026

Members believe preserving the older form of the Mass — commonly called the Traditional Latin Mass — is essential to preserving traditional Catholic theology and ethics, said Matthew Siebert, a philosophy professor at Belmont Abbey College. — Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 6 July 2026

While theology and ministry studies were designated as nonprofessional, the master of divinity degree often pursued by eventual pastors or ministers does retain professional status. — Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 2 July 2026

Along with theology, that list now includes applied psychology, pharmaceutical sciences and others. — Collin Binkley, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English theologie, from Anglo-French, from Latin theologia, from Greek, from the- + -logia -logy

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing theology

• dogmatic theology
• liberation theology
• natural theology
• practical theology
• systematic theology

Rhymes for theology

• ology
• aetiology
• anthropology
• archaeology
• archeology
• audiology
• cardiology
• climatology
• cohomology
• cosmetology
• criminology
• demonology

Kids Definition

theology

noun

the·​ol·​o·​gy thē-ˈäl-ə-jē 

plural theologies

1

: the study of religion

2

: a set of religious beliefs

theologian

ˌthē-ə-ˈlō-jən

noun

theological

-ˈläj-i-kəl

adjective