hermeneutic

From Ancient Greek ἑρμηνευτικός (hermēneutikós, “of or for interpreting”), from ἑρμηνεύς (hermēneús, “interpreter”).

hermeneutic (comparative more hermeneutic, superlative most hermeneutic)

1. That explains, interprets, illustrates or elucidates.

hermeneutic (plural hermeneutics)

1. A particular method of interpretation of text, especially holy texts.
   • 1995 September 27, G. D. Robinson, “Paul Ricoeur and the Hermeneutics of Suspicion: A Brief Overview and Critique”, in Premise, volume II, number 8, page 12:

     The hermeneutics of suspicion needs to be balanced by a hermeneutic that is grounded in the recognition that written texts represent valid expressions of their author's intent, and that principles may be established that would guide the reader to that intent.

Borrowed from French herméneutique.

hermeneutic m or n (feminine singular hermeneutică, masculine plural hermeneutici, feminine and neuter plural hermeneutice)

1. hermeneutic