hermeneutics

[hur-muh-noo-tiks, -nyoo-] / ˌhɜr məˈnu tɪks, -ˈnyu- /

NOUN

the science of searching for hidden meaning in texts

Synonyms

STRONG

exploration interpretation investigation revealing unmasking

WEAK

exegetics literary criticism psychoanalytic criticism

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

To be fair to the practice of hermeneutics, there is also a more charitable way to look at Pence's remarks.

From Salon • Aug. 27, 2023

One of the key ideas of hermeneutics is the suggestion that truth is relative to perspective and is not fixed.

From Textbooks • Jun. 15, 2022

Sharpton was at the lectern letting his words roar and flow, telling stories that circled back on each other in the familiar hermeneutics of black preachers.

From Washington Post • Jun. 4, 2020

He joined her at classes on Bible translation and hermeneutics, and enjoyed them.

From The New Yorker • Apr. 15, 2019

Mr. Huidekoper gave instruction in the New Testament, hermeneutics, ecclesiastical history, Latin, Greek, and German.

From Unitarianism in America by Cooke, George Willis