n. (pl. -ies) 1 the use of reason and argument in seeking truth and knowledge of reality, esp. of the causes and nature of things and of the principles governing existence, the material universe, perception of physical phenomena, and human behaviour. 2 a a particular system or set of beliefs reached by this. b a personal rule of life. 3 advanced learning in general (doctor of philosophy). 4 serenity; calmness; conduct governed by a particular philosophy.
[ ME f. OF filosofie f. L philosophia wisdom f. Gk (as PHILO-, sophos wise) ]