interdisciplinary

UK: ˌɪn.tə.dɪs.ɪˈplɪn.ər.i | US: ˌɪn.t̬ɚˈdɪs.ə.plɪ.ner.i

Definition

  1. adj. involving or combining two or more academic disciplines or fields of study.

Structure
inter <between>disciplin <field of study>ary <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "interdisciplinary" is a modern academic term formed in the early 20th century. It combines:

  1. "Inter-" (from Latin inter, meaning "between"), indicating connection or interaction.
  2. "Discipline" (from Latin disciplina, meaning "instruction, knowledge"), referring to a distinct field of study.
  3. "-ary" (a suffix forming adjectives, from Latin -arius), denoting relation.
    The term reflects the growing integration of knowledge across traditional academic boundaries, emphasizing collaboration between fields like science, humanities, and social sciences.
Examples

  1. The research project takes an interdisciplinary approach, merging biology and computer science.

  2. Interdisciplinary studies encourage students to think beyond single-subject limitations.

  3. She published an interdisciplinary paper on the intersection of psychology and economics.

  4. Universities are increasingly offering interdisciplinary programs to address complex global challenges.

  5. The conference brought together interdisciplinary experts to discuss climate change solutions.