Phrenology

[frɪ'nɒlədʒɪ] or [frə'nɑlədʒi]

Definition

(noun.) a now abandoned study of the shape of skull as indicative of the strengths of different faculties.

Inputed by Katrina--From WordNet

Definition

(n.) The science of the special functions of the several parts of the brain, or of the supposed connection between the various faculties of the mind and particular organs in the brain.

(n.) In popular usage, the physiological hypothesis of Gall, that the mental faculties, and traits of character, are shown on the surface of the head or skull; craniology.

Edited by Lester

Synonyms and Synonymous

n. Craniology, craniognomy.

Checker: Millicent

Definition

n. the theory that the various faculties and powers of the mind are connected with certain parts of the brain and can be known by an examination of the outer surface of the skull: the science by which character can be read by examining the skull.—adjs. Phrenolog′ic -al.—adv. Phrenolog′ically.—n. Phrenol′ogist one who believes or is versed in phrenology.

Editor: Melinda