English

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Etymology

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

Pronunciation

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Noun

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paleontology (uncountable)

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

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