mariology: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareFormal, Theological, Academic
Quick answer
What does “mariology” mean?
The theological study and doctrine concerning Mary, the mother of Jesus, in Christian tradition.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The theological study and doctrine concerning Mary, the mother of Jesus, in Christian tradition.
The branch of Christian theology dedicated to understanding the role, nature, and veneration of the Virgin Mary, encompassing her life, her attributes (e.g., Immaculate Conception, Assumption), and her place in salvation history.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage, as the term is tied to international theological discourse. Spelling is consistent.
Connotations
In both regions, the term is strongly associated with Roman Catholic theology. In some Protestant contexts, it may carry a slightly negative connotation, implying excessive focus on Mary.
Frequency
Equally rare and specialized in both the UK and US, limited to theological and religious academic contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “mariology” in a Sentence
[Subject] specialises in mariology.The conference focused on [Aspect] mariology.[Author]'s work on mariology is seminal.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “mariology” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- mariological
American English
- mariological
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in theology and religious studies departments, particularly in institutions with a Catholic affiliation. Example: 'Her PhD dissertation contributes significantly to modern mariology.'
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
The precise technical term within systematic theology for the sub-discipline focusing on the Virgin Mary.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “mariology”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “mariology”
- Misspelling as 'maryology' (incorrect: 'y' is not used).
- Using it to refer generally to the worship of any female deity (it is specifically Christian).
- Pronouncing it /məˈraɪ.ə.lɒdʒi/ (the first 'i' is short).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
While it is most developed and formalised within Roman Catholic theology, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and some Anglican traditions also have rich Marian theological traditions that can be termed mariology.
Mariology is the academic, systematic theological study and doctrine. Devotion (e.g., praying the Rosary) is the practical expression of faith and veneration based on that theology.
Yes, but only at universities with strong theology or religious studies departments, particularly those affiliated with Christian traditions that emphasise Marian doctrine. It is typically a postgraduate specialisation.
Yes, a 'Mariologist' is a theologian who specialises in the study of mariology.
The theological study and doctrine concerning Mary, the mother of Jesus, in Christian tradition.
Mariology is usually formal, theological, academic in register.
Mariology: in British English it is pronounced /ˌmɛːrɪˈɒlədʒi/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌmɛriˈɑːlədʒi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'MARIe' + 'OLOGY' = the study of Marie/Mary.
Conceptual Metaphor
THEOLOGY IS A MAP (mariology is a specific region on the map of Christian doctrine).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would you most likely encounter the word 'mariology'?