noun

theosophy

thee-OS-ə-fee

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Theosophy (noun) means any religious or philosophical doctrine that claims knowledge of God can be reached through mystical insight and spiritual experience. Example: “Their theosophy holds that mystics can commune directly with the divine.”

noun

Any religious or philosophical doctrine that claims knowledge of God can be reached through mystical insight and spiritual experience.

"Their theosophy holds that mystics can commune directly with the divine."

"The lecture compared theosophy across several mystical traditions."

"Followers of this theosophy believe enlightenment comes through inner spiritual practice rather than scripture alone."

How to use theosophy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe idea that you can know God through mystical experience rather than just study or reasoning.

When to use it

It is a formal term used in religious studies and the history of philosophy.

Memory tip

Split the word into theo- (god) and -sophy (wisdom) to remember it means wisdom about the divine.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

philosophy → theology →

Common pairings

a system of theosophy mystical theosophy theosophy and mysticism study theosophy

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Their _____ holds that mystics can commune directly with the divine.

Etymology

Theosophy came into English from Medieval Latin theosophia, which in turn came from Ancient Greek theosophia, meaning knowledge of things divine. The Greek word joined theos, meaning god, with sophia, meaning wisdom.

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for theosophy

trophy Brophy atrophy philosophy hypertrophy anthroposophy

See all rhymes for theosophy →

Frequently asked questions

What does theosophy mean?

It refers to a religious or philosophical doctrine claiming that knowledge of God can be reached through mystical insight rather than ordinary reasoning.

Where does the word theosophy come from?

It comes from Medieval Latin theosophia, which itself derives from the Ancient Greek words for god and wisdom.

Is theosophy a specific religion?

The general word describes any such mystical doctrine, though it is also linked to particular groups that have used the name for their own beliefs.

What is the meaning of theosophy?

"theosophy" (noun) means any religious or philosophical doctrine that claims knowledge of God can be reached through mystical insight and spiritual experience.