Palaeontology

usgb/ˌpeɪliɑːnˈtɑːlədʒi/
noun

The study of fossils to learn about life in the past.

My brother is studying palaeontology because he's fascinated by the history of life on Earth.
Visual representation of "palaeontology" - The study of fossils to learn about life in the past

Often appears as...

  • study of palaeontology
  • palaeontology department

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "palaeontology"
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Academic Field

Palaeontology is an academic discipline, often taught in universities and researched by scientists.

Illustration for Academic Field
She's presenting her palaeontology thesis next week.
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Pronunciation

Pronounced 'pay-lee-on-tol-uh-jee', stressing the third syllable 'on'.

Illustration for Pronunciation
Can you help me with this palaeontology assignment?
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Historical Life

The focus of palaeontology is on life forms that existed in the past, not current species.

Illustration for Historical Life
The palaeontology lecture covered dinosaurs of the Cretaceous Period.
Visual representation of the word "Palaeontology"

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