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noun Common

theology

thee-O-luh-jee

Theology (noun) means the systematic study of religious belief, God, or gods. Example: “She earned a degree in theology before becoming a minister.”

noun
1
The systematic study of religious belief, God, or gods.
"She earned a degree in theology before becoming a minister."
"Christian theology explores questions about the nature of God."
2
A particular set of religious beliefs or doctrines held by a group.
"The two denominations follow quite different theologies."

How to use theology

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe formal, academic study of religion and beliefs about God.

Common pairings
study theology a degree in theology liberation theology

Word forms

theologies plural

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Etymology

From Greek theologia, built from theos ("god") plus logos ("word, study").

Origin: Greek

divinity religious studies doctrine dogma creed belief system

Related words

Rhymes for theology

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Frequently asked questions

What does “theology” mean?

The word “theology” means the systematic study of religious belief, God, or gods. In plain terms, the formal, academic study of religion and beliefs about God.

How do you pronounce “theology”?

“Theology” is pronounced thee-O-luh-jee (/θiˈɒ.lə.d͡ʒi/ in IPA).

How do you use “theology” in a sentence?

Here is “theology” used in a sentence: “She earned a degree in theology before becoming a minister.”

What part of speech is “theology”?

“Theology” is a noun.

Where does the word “theology” come from?

The word “theology” comes from Greek. From Greek theologia, built from theos ("god") plus logos ("word, study").

Is “theology” a common word?

“Theology” is a fairly common word in modern English.

How many meanings does “theology” have?

“Theology” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the systematic study of religious belief, God, or gods.

What is the difference between theology and religion?

Religion is a system of faith and worship, while theology is the systematic study of religious belief, God, or gods. A person can study theology academically without personally being religious.

What is the difference between theology and philosophy?

Theology studies religious belief, God, or gods, usually working from within a particular faith's doctrines. Philosophy uses reason to examine broad questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics, without assuming any religious doctrine.

What is the difference between theology and doctrine?

Theology is the study and analysis of religious belief, while doctrine is the specific set of beliefs a religious group teaches. Theology can examine, defend, or develop a group's doctrine.

What does a theologian do?

A theologian studies religious belief, God or gods, and doctrine in a systematic way. This can involve analyzing sacred texts, interpreting doctrine, and exploring questions about faith.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial