# zoology

/zoʊˈɑɫədʒi/ (US) · /zuːˈɒlədʒi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/zoology
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. the study of animals

noun · CEFR B2

the branch of science that studies animals and how they live.

For teachers: the scientific study of the behaviour, structure, physiology, classification, and distribution of animals.

- She decided to study zoology because she wanted to work with endangered species in Africa.
- Advances in molecular zoology have allowed researchers to reclassify several species based on genetic markers rather than physical traits alone.

Usage: Uncountable when referring to the field of study; countable when referring to the animal life of a specific region.

Teaching tip: Learners often confuse the pronunciation; the first syllable is 'zo-' (like 'go'), not 'zoo-' (like the place where animals are kept).

### 2. animal life of a region

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

the specific types of animals that live in a certain place or time.

For teachers: the animal life of a particular area or geological period.

- The local zoology of the island is unique because it was isolated for millions of years.
- The professor's lecture focused on the prehistoric zoology of the region, specifically the megafauna that disappeared after the last ice age.

Usage: Often used with a definite article or a possessive adjective.

Teaching tip: In this context, 'zoology' is a more technical synonym for 'fauna'.

## Examples

- She decided to study zoology because she loves learning about wildlife.
- A degree in zoology can lead to careers in wildlife conservation, zoo management, or environmental research.
- Advances in molecular zoology have allowed researchers to reclassify several species based on genetic markers rather than purely morphological characteristics.

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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.