Definition Essay - What is Wisdom? -- Expository Definition Essays

What is Wisdom? If one asks the majority of people what the word wisdom means, most allow answer vaguely that it is the knowledge gained during a lifetime. However, wisdom is much more than just knowledge gained it signifies the accumulation of knowledge, the application of learning, and the personification of Gods will in the human beings of the universe (according to the American Heritage Dictionary, 6th ed.). The abstract nature of the word wisdom allows for broad interpretation of its context. To limit the vagueness of the definition, many interpret wisdom as the accumulation of knowledge. In Greek mythology, the goddess Athena was known for her wisdom. Additionally, the personification of animals as possessing wisdom also heavily influenced Greek lore. Owls, for example, are synonymous with wisdom likewise, foxes, with their wily nature and ability to outsmart their prey, are considered insightful animals. Age plays a prominent part in the accumulation of learnin g. In many societies the elderly sire top status as preservers of both culture and knowled...