n. (pl. -ies) Philos.
1. the explanation of phenomena by the purpose they serve rather than by postulated causes.
2 Theol. the doctrine of design and purpose in the material world.
Derivatives:
teleologic adj. teleological adj. teleologically adv. teleologism n. teleologist n.
Etymology: mod.L teleologia f. Gk telos teleos end + -LOGY