Anthropology is the study of everything that makes us human, but navigating its complex terminology can be a challenge. The Glossary of Anthropology by Jeffrey Iverson provides the essential definitions and historical context needed to master the four fields of the human story.

Archaeology depends on a shared language—one that allows researchers, students, and field practitioners to describe materials, methods, and interpretations with clarity. This glossary brings together the essential terms that shape archaeological inquiry, offering concise definitions that support confident communication in the field, the lab, and the classroom. It is designed as a practical companion for anyone working to understand how we study the human past.