ontology

noun

on·​tol·​o·​gy än-ˈtä-lə-jē How to pronounce ontology (audio)
1
: a branch of metaphysics concerned with the nature and relations of being
Ontology deals with abstract entities.
2
: a particular theory about the nature of being or the kinds of things that have existence
ontologist noun

Examples of ontology in a Sentence

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Clinical concepts are intricately linked by a complex ontology that defines relationships between terms. Michal Tzuchman Katz Md, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025 The result is a wildly original experience that moves beyond mere adaptation and tables fresh questions about cinema’s ontology. Zac Ntim, Deadline, 12 Feb. 2025 In computer science this is called ontology, or the process of formally naming the types, properties and relationships between entities. Carl Engelking, Discover Magazine, 27 Dec. 2019 In a very broad sense these disciplines push against our conceptions of ontology. Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 31 Aug. 2010 See All Example Sentences for ontology

Word History

Etymology

New Latin ontologia, from ont- + -logia -logy

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ontology was in 1663

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Cite this Entry

“Ontology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ontology. Accessed 2 Mar. 2025.

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