ScienceJune 30, 2026

oceanography

/ˌoʊʃəˈnɒɡrəfi/

Definition

The scientific study of the physical, chemical, and biological features of the ocean.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'ōkeanos' (ocean) and 'graphia' (writing or recording), it entered English in the 19th century to describe the systematic mapping and description of the sea.

In the news

In this article, oceanography refers to major research initiatives that are currently threatened due to uncertainties in U.S. federal funding.

THE WEEK OF JUNE 29, 2026

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