# archaeology

/ˌɑɹkiˈɑɫədʒi/ (US) · /ˌɑːkiːˈɒlədʒi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/archaeology
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. the study of the past

noun · CEFR B2

the study of the past by digging up and examining objects, buildings, and other remains.

For teachers: the systematic study of past human life and activities by the recovery and analysis of material culture.

- She decided to study archaeology because she loved finding old coins and pottery in the garden.
- Modern archaeology relies heavily on non-invasive techniques like ground-penetrating radar before any physical excavation begins on a sensitive historical site.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun for the field of study, but can be countable when referring to a specific project or set of findings.

## Examples

- She decided to study archaeology to learn about ancient Egypt.
- The new highway project was delayed after workers discovered a site of significant interest to local archaeology.
- Modern archaeology relies as much on satellite imaging and chemical analysis as it does on the traditional methods of careful excavation and manual cataloging.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.