Relating to the interpretation or explanation of texts, especially religious texts or philosophical works; concerned with how we understand meaning.
From Greek 'hermeneutikos,' from 'hermeneutes' (interpreter), possibly derived from Hermes (the messenger god). The term entered English in the 17th century.
Hermeneutics sounds mystical, but it's really about a practical question: how do we know what a text really means when different people read the same words and understand them differently?
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.