{ } a. [ Gr. &unr_;, fr. &unr_; to interpret: cf. F. herméneutique. ] Unfolding the signification; of or pertaining to interpretation; exegetical; explanatory; as, hermeneutic theology, or the art of expounding the Scriptures; a hermeneutic phrase. [ 1913 Webster ]

adv. According to the principles of interpretation; as, a verse of Scripture was examined hermeneutically. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. [ Gr. &unr_; (sc. &unr_;). ] The science of interpretation and explanation; exegesis; esp., that branch of theology which defines the laws whereby the meaning of the Scriptures is to be ascertained. Schaff-Herzog Encyc. [ 1913 Webster ]