phrenology

[ fri-nol-uh-jee, fre- ]

noun

1. a psychological theory or analytical method based on the belief that certain mental faculties and character traits are indicated by the configurations of the skull.

phrenology

/ ˌfrɛnəˈlɒdʒɪkəl; frɪˈnɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. (formerly) the branch of science concerned with localization of function in the human brain, esp determination of the strength of the faculties by the shape and size of the skull overlying the parts of the brain thought to be responsible for them

Derived Forms

• phrenological, adjective
• phreˈnologist, noun

Other Words From

• phren·o·log·ic [fren-l-, oj, -ik], phreno·logi·cal adjective
• phreno·logi·cal·ly adverb
• phre·nolo·gist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of phrenology¹

An Americanism dating back to 1795–1805; phreno- + -logy

Example Sentences

His demented phrenology monologue to Django all but seals it.

From The Daily Beast

They thus founded the pseudoscience denominated phrenology, which we now know has practically nothing to justify itself.

From Project Gutenberg

He was, perhaps, best known shortly before his death, when delivering lectures on phrenology.

From Project Gutenberg

But when they try to settle what women are good for, by phrenology, I like to have them put their tape round my head.

From Project Gutenberg

I suppose phrenology is an open question, on which everybody has a right to speak his mind.

From Project Gutenberg

But I am much less interested in crusades for or against phrenology than in your happiness at Ivy Cottage.

From Project Gutenberg