gestalt

noun ge·stalt \gə-ˈstält, -ˈshtält, -ˈstȯlt, -ˈshtȯlt\

psychology : something that is made of many parts and yet is somehow more than or different from the combination of its parts; broadly : the general quality or character of something

plural ge·stalts also ge·stalt·en \-ˈstäl-t^ən, -ˈshtäl-, -ˈstȯl-, -ˈshtȯl-\

Full Definition of GESTALT

: a structure, configuration, or pattern of physical, biological, or psychological phenomena so integrated as to constitute a functional unit with properties not derivable by summation of its parts

See gestalt defined for English-language learners

Origin of GESTALT

German, literally, shape, form

First Known Use: 1922

Other Psychology Terms

fetish, hypochondria, intelligence, mania, narcissism, neurosis, pathological, psychosis, schadenfreude, subliminal

Rhymes with GESTALT

asphalt, assault, basalt, Chennault, cobalt, cross vault, default, desalt, exalt, fan vault, foot fault, no-fault, pole vault, rock salt, Schwarzwald, stringhalt

Medical Dictionary

gestalt

noun ge·stalt \gə-ˈs(h)tält, -ˈs(h)tȯlt\

plural ge·stalt·en \-^ən\ or gestalts

Medical Definition of GESTALT

: a structure, arrangement, or pattern of physical, biological, or psychological phenomena so integrated as to constitute a functional unit with properties not derivable by summation of its parts