Definition of anthropology
1
: the science of human beings
especially
: the study of human beings and their ancestors through time and space and in relation to physical character, environmental and social relations, and culture
2
: theology dealing with the origin, nature, and destiny of human beings
Buying Guide
Encourage future scientists with science kits selected by our Reviews team.
Test Your Vocabulary
Which Word Does Not Belong?
-
- Which of these words does not mean "nonsense"?

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share anthropology
Time Traveler for anthropology
The first known use of anthropology was in 1593
See more words from the same year