ScienceJuly 14, 2026

transdisciplinarity

/ˌtrænzˌdɪsəplɪˈnɛrəti/

Definition

The practice of integrating knowledge and methods from multiple academic disciplines and non-academic fields, such as social sciences and engineering, to solve complex, real-world problems.

Etymology

The word combines the Latin prefix 'trans-' (across or beyond) with 'discipline,' reflecting the movement of knowledge across academic boundaries. It emerged in the 20th century to describe research that surpasses the limits of a single scholarly field.

In the news

In the article, transdisciplinarity is highlighted as a vital evolution for Earth sciences, where researchers must increasingly engage with fields outside their traditional expertise to effectively address modern environmental and societal challenges.

A Movement for Earth Sciences Grounded in Generosity

Read the full article ↗

AMS Headlines

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.

Not for marketing. One email on launch day.