R E F E R E N C E S
Philosophy n. 1. the rational investigation of the truths and principles of being, knowledge, or conduct. 2. a system of philosophical doctrine: the philosophy of Spinoza. 3. the critical study of the basic principles and concepts of a particular branch of knowledge: the philosophy of science. 4. a system of principles for guidance in practical affairs: a philosophy of life. 5. a philosophical, calm, or stoic attitude. [ME philosophie < L philosophia < GK. see Philo-, -Sophy]
philo-, an element appearing in loan words from Greek, where it meant "loving" [philology]; on this model, used in the formation of compound words [philoprogenitive]. Also, esp. before a vowel, phil-. [< GK, comb. form of phílos loving]
-sophy, an element occurring in loan words from Greek [philosophy; theosophy]; on this model used with the meaning "science of" in the formation of compound words [anthroposophy]. [< GK -sophia, comb. form of sophéia skill, wisdom; see -y3]
Philosophical adj. 1. of or pertaining to philosophy: philosophical studies. 2. versed in or occupied with philosophy. 3. proper to or befitting a philosopher. 4. rational and calm under trying circumstances. Also philosophic . . . .
[Urdang, Laurence, ed. Random House Dictionary of The English Language. New York: Random House, 1968.]
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