her·me·neu·tics \ˌhərməˈn(y)üd.iks\noun plural but usually singular in construction (alsoher·me·neu·tic) Etymology: Greek hermēneutikē, from feminine of hermēneutikos : the study of the methodological principles of interpretation and explanation; specifically: the study of the general principles of biblical interpretation < hermeneutics became a weapon in ecclesiastical controversies — J.H.Summers >