Theory of mind

/ˈθɪɹ.i əv maɪnd/ noun

Definition

The cognitive ability to attribute mental states — beliefs, intentions, desires, emotions — to oneself and to others, and to understand that others may have different perspectives.

Etymology

Term coined by David Premack and Guy Woodruff in 1978. From Greek 'theoria' (contemplation) + Old English 'mynd' (memory, thought).

Kelly Says

Theory of mind is knowing that other people have their own thoughts, feelings, and views — which might be totally different from yours!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.