Definition of "philosophy" in English

noun

1. (uncountable) An academic discipline that seeks truth through reasoning rather than empiricism, often attempting to provide explanations relating to general concepts such as existence and rationality.

   • Philosophy is often divided into five major branches: logic, metaphysics, epistemology, ethics and aesthetics.

2. (countable) A view or outlook regarding fundamental principles underlying some domain.

   • a philosophy of government; a philosophy of education

3. (countable) A general principle (usually moral).

4. (countable) A comprehensive system of belief.

5. (uncountable, originally, now rare) The love of wisdom.

6. (uncountable, dated) A calm and thoughtful demeanor; calmness of temper.

7. (printing, dated) Synonym of small pica (especially in French printing).

8. (countable, archaic) A broader branch of (non-applied) science.

   • natural philosophy

verb

1. (now rare) To philosophize.