theologian
UK: ˌθiːəˈləʊdʒən | US: ˌθiːəˈloʊdʒən
n. a person who studies or is an expert in theology, the study of religious faith, practice, and experience
The word "theologian" traces back to Greek roots:
- "theo" (θεός) means "god" or "divine."
- "log" (λόγος) originally meant "word," "reason," or "discourse," but evolved to signify "study" or "science."
- The suffix "-ian" (Latin "-ianus") denotes a person associated with a field.
The term emerged in Late Latin as "theologianus," combining these elements to describe someone engaged in the systematic study of divine matters. Over time, it entered Middle English via Old French, retaining its core meaning of a scholar of religion.
The theologian spent decades analyzing ancient religious texts.
As a renowned theologian, her lectures on ethics attracted wide attention.
Medieval theologians often debated the nature of divine grace.
The conference brought together theologians from various faith traditions.
His work as a theologian bridges modern science and spiritual inquiry.