Bibliotherapy
/ˌbɪb li əˈθɛr ə pi/noun
A therapeutic approach that uses literature to support mental health and personal growth.
Did you know?The term bibliotherapy dates back to the early 20th century but has roots in ancient practices where sacred texts were believed to possess healing powers.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
liber
“Book; free (as in freedom)”
Ancient Greek
Greek
biblion
“Scroll or book (from 'biblion', diminutive of 'biblus', meaning 'papyrus')”
14th Century
Old French
biblio
“Book, scroll, manuscript; the study of books”
20th Century
English
bibliotherapy
“Therapeutic use of reading for mental health and personal development”
Explore more surprising origins