anthroposophy
|an-thro-po-so-phy|
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/ˌænθrəˈpɑsəfi/
🇬🇧
/ˌænθrəˈpɒsəfi/
human wisdom
Etymology
'anthroposophy' originates from Greek roots via modern European usage: from Greek 'ánthrōpos' (ἄνθρωπος) meaning 'human' and 'sophia' (σοφία) meaning 'wisdom', combined in modern form to mean 'knowledge/wisdom about humans'.
'anthroposophy' entered modern usage from German 'Anthroposophie' (coined and popularized by Rudolf Steiner around 1900); the German term itself is a formation from the Greek elements 'ánthrōpos' + 'sophia' and was adapted into English as 'anthroposophy'.
Initially the compound literally meant 'human wisdom' (knowledge concerning humans); over time it became the name of Steiner's spiritual doctrine and, more broadly, a label for related spiritual-scientific ideas and practices.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a spiritual-philosophical system holding that human beings can attain knowledge of spiritual realities through inner development; broadly, 'spiritual science' (often translated as 'anthroposophy').
She studied anthroposophy and applied its ideas to her personal practice.
Synonyms
Noun 2
the specific movement and body of teachings founded by Rudolf Steiner in the early 20th century, which influenced Waldorf education, biodynamic agriculture, and related practices.
Anthroposophy influenced the development of Waldorf schools and certain agricultural practices.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/26 19:44