ornithology

UK: ˌɔː.nɪˈθɒl.ə.dʒi | US: ˌɔːr.nɪˈθɑː.lə.dʒi

Definition

  1. n. the scientific study of birds

Structure
ornitho <bird, from Greek *ornis/ornithos*>logy <study of, from Greek *-logia*>
Etymology

The word "ornithology" combines two Greek morphemes: ornitho- (from ornis, meaning "bird") and -logy (from -logia, meaning "study of"). The term emerged in the 17th century as a scientific discipline, reflecting the systematic study of avian species. The Greek root ornis also appears in words like "ornithopter" (a bird-like flying machine) and "ornithine" (a compound named for its early isolation from bird excrement). The suffix -logy is widely used in scientific fields (e.g., biology, geology), emphasizing the word's academic context.

Examples

  1. Ornithology requires patience and keen observation skills to track bird behavior.

  2. She pursued a degree in ornithology to specialize in migratory bird conservation.

  3. Modern ornithology often uses satellite tags to study bird migration patterns.

  4. His passion for ornithology began when he spotted a rare eagle in childhood.

  5. The museum’s ornithology department houses specimens from over 1,000 species.