-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
social science
noun
1
: a branch of science that deals with the institutions and functioning of human society and with the interpersonal relationships of individuals as members of society
2
: a science (such as economics or political science) dealing with a particular phase or aspect of human society
social scientist
noun
Examples of social science in a Sentence
Economics is a social science.
Recent Examples on the Web
Creating interdisciplinary computer majors — collaborating with the humanities, business, and social sciences.
—Marybeth Gasman, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025
The report shows that STEM fields of study like engineering, life sciences and physical science are trending more popular among undergraduate students, while the number of architecture, business and social science majors steadily declined.
—Jennah Pendleton, Sacramento Bee, 7 Jan. 2025
In 2022, 89% of students earned an A or B in English, social science, math and science across the board.
—Bonnie Kleffman, Austin American-Statesman, 6 Dec. 2024
Planners are tasked with improving the lives of city dwellers, which requires a multidisciplinary approach that encompasses not only the nuts and bolts of making land use decisions, but also social sciences, ethics, and public health.
—Seydina Fall, Fortune, 2 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for social science
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Word History
First Known Use
1746, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Dictionary Entries Near social science
Cite this Entry
“Social science.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/social%20science. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
social science
noun1
: a branch of science that deals with the institutions and functioning of human society and with the interpersonal relationships of individuals as members of society
2
: a science (as economics) dealing with a particular side of human society
Medical Definition
social science
noun1
: a branch of science that deals with the institutions and functioning of human society and with the interpersonal relationships of individuals as members of society
2
: a science (as anthropology or social psychology) dealing with a particular phase or aspect of human society
More from Merriam-Webster on social science
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about social science
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share