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palaeontology

What is another word for palaeontology? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — The study of life from prehistoric or geological times, especially through fossils.

We haven't recorded synonyms for palaeontology yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use palaeontology

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

study palaeontology vertebrate palaeontology palaeontology department field of palaeontology

It is a scientific term, used in both academic and everyday writing.

Etymology

The word came into English in the 1830s from French paléontologie. It is built from Greek-derived parts meaning ancient, being and study.

Full origin of palaeontology →

Frequently asked questions

What does palaeontology mean?
Palaeontology is the study of ancient life, especially as shown by fossils. It looks at forms of life from prehistoric or geological times.
Is palaeontology or paleontology the correct spelling?
Palaeontology is the standard spelling here, while paleontology is the American one.
What is the difference between palaeontology and archaeology?
Palaeontology studies ancient life, mainly through fossils. Archaeology studies past human activity through objects and remains.

Nearby words

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Synonyms and antonyms from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA.