Question:

Choose the correct meaning of the word philately.

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In competitive English exams, questions on "one-word substitutions" or "specialized terms" are very common.
Make a list of terms ending in "-ology" (the study of) and "-y" or "-ics" relating to hobbies or collections.
Memorizing these terms systematically can help you secure easy marks.
Updated On: Jun 3, 2026
  • Study of coins
  • Collection of stamps
  • Study of birds
  • Collection of paintings
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation


Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The goal of this question is to identify the precise definition of the noun "philately" from the given list of options.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

  • Definition of Philately: "Philately" is defined as the collection, study, and appreciation of postage stamps and related postal history materials.
  • Etymology: The term was coined in 1864 by the French stamp collector Georges Herpin. It is derived from the Greek words "philos" (meaning loving or fond of) and "ateleia" (meaning exemption from tax or duty, which refers to the postage stamp indicating prepaying of fees).
  • Analysis of Option (A) - Study of coins: The scientific study or collection of coins, tokens, and paper money is called "numismatics", making this option incorrect.
  • Analysis of Option (B) - Collection of stamps: This is the exact definition of philately, making it the correct option.
  • Analysis of Option (C) - Study of birds: The scientific study of birds is called "ornithology", so this option is incorrect.
  • Analysis of Option (D) - Collection of paintings: There is no single classical term like philately for this, but it is typically referred to as art collecting or curation.
  • Contextual Relevance: Philatelists are people who collect stamps, often valuing them for historical, geographical, and artistic significance.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The correct meaning of "philately" is "Collection of stamps", which is option (B).
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