English Explanatory Dictionary

paleontology

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. The study of the forms of life existing in prehistoric or geologic times, especially as represented by fossils.

Pronunciation

/ˌpeɪli.ənˈtɒləd͡ʒi/ /ˌpæli.ənˈtɒləd͡ʒi/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-paleontology.wav /ˌpeɪli.ənˈtɑləd͡ʒi/

Word forms

paleontology palaeontology palæontology

Etymology

Attested since 1836 (as palæontology). From French paléontologie (attested since 1822). By surface analysis, paleo- (“ancient”) + onto- (“being”) + -logy (“study”).

Derived words

actuopaleontology micropaleontology paleontologic paleontological paleontologist paleontologize phytopaleontology xenopaleontology zoopaleontology
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