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

Meanwhile, Sasha graduated from the University of Southern California in 2023 with a degree in sociology. —Andrea Wurzburger, PEOPLE, 17 Jan. 2026

Joyce Ladner, civil rights activist and former professor of sociology, provost and interim president at Howard University, is the keynote speaker for both events. —Kari Barnett, Sun Sentinel, 16 Jan. 2026

Decades of research in sociology, criminology and public health demonstrate that youth behavior is deeply shaped by peer networks, identity formation and perceived future horizons. —Teri Sforza, Oc Register, 16 Jan. 2026

Structural forces shape health and illness By focusing on social and structural influences on health, medical sociology has contributed significantly to programs addressing issues like segregation, discrimination, poverty, unemployment and underfunded schools. —Jennifer Singh, The Conversation, 8 Jan. 2026

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

Rhymes for sociology

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

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