noun
- the theory and methodology of interpretation, especially of biblical texts and literary works
Usage: academic; philosophy
Examples
- The seminary course covered biblical hermeneutics and textual analysis.
- Literary hermeneutics helps readers understand the deeper meanings in classic works.
- His doctoral thesis focused on the hermeneutics of ancient Greek philosophy.
- The professor explained how hermeneutics differs from simple translation.
- Modern hermeneutics considers both the author’s intent and the reader’s context.
- The study of hermeneutics is essential for theological scholarship.