Ontology
/ɒnˈtɒl.ə.dʒi/noun
The branch of metaphysics dealing with the nature of being and existence.
Did you know?The term 'Ontology' emerged in the early modern period, intertwining philosophical inquiry with mystical elements of being and existence, reflecting humanity's eternal search for meaning.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ὄντος (ontos)
“of being, existence, or essence.”
Late 16th Century
Latin
ontologia
“study of being, derived from Greek roots.”
17th Century
Latin
ontologus
“one who studies being.”
Modern English
English
ontology
“the philosophical study of the nature of being.”
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