ornithologist

UK: ˌɔː.nɪˈθɒl.ə.dʒɪst | US: ˌɔːr.nəˈθɑː.lə.dʒɪst

Definition

  1. n. a scientist who studies birds

Structure
ornitho <bird>logist <one who studies>
Etymology

The word "ornithologist" combines the Greek root "ornitho-" (from "ornis," meaning "bird") with the suffix "-logist" (from "-logos," meaning "study" or "science"). The term emerged in the early 19th century to describe specialists in avian biology, reflecting the scientific community's adoption of Greek-derived terminology for academic disciplines. The morphemes preserve their original spelling, allowing clear reconstruction of the word's meaning: "one who studies birds."

Examples

  1. The ornithologist spent years observing migratory patterns of Arctic terns.

  2. As an ornithologist, she published groundbreaking research on parrot intelligence.

  3. The museum's bird exhibit was curated by a renowned ornithologist.

  4. Ornithologists use specialized equipment like mist nets to study wild birds safely.

  5. During the expedition, the ornithologist documented three previously unknown bird species.