Definition of "menology" in English

noun

1. (uncommon) The study of months; the names and system of months within a given calendar.

   • The Romans themselves believed Romulus had given them a 10-month lunar calendar, but modern scholars consider the actual original state of Roman menology uncertain.

2. (often capitalized) Synonym of menologium, a monthly record, particularly in Assyriology and certain Christian contexts.

   • In the Mart. of Donegal, this is the day of St. Comgall (Comhgall), placed in the Menology on the 27th June, as having no day.
   • The duration of the rites of mourning over nine days is... supported by references in a Standard Babylonian menology...
   • The Menology of St Symeon mostly repeats earlier accounts but includes some small additions as well.

3. (rare) The content of a menologium, a liturgical calendar or hagiography.

   • Their readings from the holy Scriptures and from the fathers, from the menologies of the church and the teachings of its principal pastors, are a great, continually swelling hymn of praise to the rule of providence and to the progressive actualization of the eternal plan of salvation.
   • The menologies of St Symeon mostly repeat earlier accounts but include some small additions as well.