zoology
UK: zuːˈɒlədʒi | US: zoʊˈɑːlədʒi
n. the scientific study of animals and their behavior, physiology, classification, and distribution.
The word zoology combines two Greek morphemes: zōion (meaning "animal") and -logia (meaning "study of"). The term emerged in the 17th century to describe the scientific discipline focused on animal life. The prefix zoo- appears in related terms like zooplankton and zooflagellate, while -logy is a common suffix in scientific fields (e.g., biology, geology). The fusion reflects the classical tradition of forming academic terminology from Greek roots.
She majored in zoology to pursue her passion for wildlife conservation.
Modern zoology integrates genetics, ecology, and evolutionary biology.
The museum’s zoology exhibit features rare specimens from the Amazon.
His research in zoology focuses on migratory patterns of birds.
Early zoology was heavily influenced by Aristotle’s observations.