1. the study and analysis of the policies and power structure of the Soviet government, especially through interpretation of public statements and actions.
Usage: originally used during the Cold War; often used in historical or political contexts
2. the practice of analyzing the internal workings and decision-making of any secretive or opaque organization or government.
Usage: extended or figurative use

Examples

• During the Cold War, kremlinology was essential for Western intelligence agencies trying to understand Soviet intentions.
• Experts in kremlinology would scrutinize every speech by Soviet leaders for hidden meanings.
• The term kremlinology comes from the Kremlin, the seat of Russian government power.
• Modern analysts sometimes use kremlinology to study the decision-making processes of other authoritarian regimes.
• Kremlinology requires careful attention to detail and knowledge of historical context.
• Scholars of kremlinology often debate the true motivations behind official government announcements.