graphology
graphology Lexical Profile
graphology Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The analysis of the physical characteristics and patterns of handwriting with the aim of identifying the writer, indicating their psychological state at the time of writing, or evaluating their personality traits.
"Although some employers once used graphology to screen job applicants, modern psychologists generally dismiss it as lacking empirical validity."
The linguistic study of written and printed symbols and of writing systems as a parallel to phonology in spoken language.
"In comparative linguistics, the department offers advanced courses in both phonology and graphology."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'graphology' with forensic handwriting examination; while graphology attempts to infer personality traits from handwriting, forensic document examination scientifically verifies the authenticity and authorship of disputed documents.
• Rhymes for graphology
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the mid-19th century from French graphologie, combining Ancient Greek graphē ('writing') and -logia ('study of').