ENGLISH
REFERENCE

ecological

adj.
US //ɛkəˈɫɑdʒɪkəɫ// UK //ˌɛkəlˈɒdʒɪkəl// eco·log·i·cal
  1. 1 scientific study of nature (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Science

    relating to the scientific study of how living things interact with their environment.

    pertaining to the branch of biology that deals with the relations of organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings.

    Example

    The oil spill caused an ecological disaster that affected thousands of birds.

    Example

    The researchers conducted an ecological survey to determine how the new dam would affect the local fish population and water quality.

    Usage

    Often used to describe large-scale systems or scientific research.
  2. 2 environmentally friendly (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    designed to protect the environment or not cause damage to nature.

    characterised by a lack of harmful effects on the environment; often used as a synonym for 'green' or 'eco-friendly'.

    Example

    Many people are switching to ecological cleaning products to reduce water pollution.

    Example

    The company has committed to more ecological manufacturing processes to meet the growing demand for sustainable consumer goods.
Origin

From ecology + -ical.

Word family

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