noun ( pl. -phies)
the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, esp. when considered as an academic discipline. See also natural philosophy .
• a set of views and theories of a particular philosopher concerning such study or an aspect of it : a clash of rival socialist philosophies.
• the study of the theoretical basis of a particular branch of knowledge or experience : the philosophy of science.
• a theory or attitude held by a person or organization that acts as a guiding principle for behavior : don’t expect anything and you won’t be disappointed, that’s my philosophy.
ORIGIN Middle English : from Old French philosophie, via Latin from Greek philosophia ‘love of wisdom.’
