paleontology

English

Alternative forms

Etymology

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

Pronunciation

  • (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /ˌpeɪli.ənˈtɒləd͡ʒi/, /ˌpæli.ənˈtɒləd͡ʒi/
  • Audio (Southern England):(file)
  • (General American) IPA(key): /ˌpeɪli.ənˈtɑləd͡ʒi/

Noun

paleontology (uncountable)

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

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