Psychological

Definition

Psychological pertains to the mind or to mental phenomena as the subject matter of psychology; relates to the emotional and mental state of a person.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌsaɪkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl/
• Respelling: sy-kuh-LOJ-i-kuhl (with "sy" as in "sigh," "kuh" as in the sound of "cut," "LOJ" as in "logic," and "i-kuhl" as in "nickel")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌsaɪkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl/
• Respelling: sy-kuh-LOJ-i-kuhl (similar to American English, with "sy" as in "sigh," "kuh" as in the sound of "cut," "LOJ" as in "logic," and "i-kuhl" as in "nickel")

In both dialects, the primary stress is on the third syllable ("LOJ"), and there is a secondary stress at the beginning of the word ("sy"). The overall pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English.

Etymology

The term "psychological" is derived from the Latin word "psychologia," which itself comes from the Greek words "psyche," meaning "breath, spirit, soul," and "logia," referring to the study of something.

Derivatives

• Psychologist
• Psychologize
• Psychologically
• Psychological warfare
• Psychological profile

Synonyms

• Mental
• Cognitive
• Emotional

Antonyms

• Physical
• Tangible
• External

Usage

"Psychological" is often used to describe things that are related to the mind and its processes, especially in relation to behavior and emotions. It can be applied to various fields, from health to warfare, to indicate strategies, effects, or aspects that target or emanate from the human mind.

Related Terms

• Psychoanalysis
• Behaviorism
• Cognitive therapy
• Psychosocial
• Neuropsychological

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Relating to the mind or mental processes; of or concerning psychology.
• Example: She pursued a degree in psychological studies.

• Affecting or arising in the mind; related to the emotional and mental state of a person.
• Example: The trauma had a deep psychological impact on him.

• Designed to influence the mind or emotions; especially as a form of strategy.
• Example: The army used psychological warfare to demoralize the enemy troops.