ScienceAugust 15, 2026

palaeontology

pay-lee-en-TOL-uh-jee

Definition

The scientific study of prehistoric life, including plants and animals, through the analysis of fossilized remains.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'palaios' (ancient), 'ont-' (being), and '-logia' (study of). It entered the English language in the early 19th century to describe the burgeoning scientific study of extinct life forms.

In the news

The article uses this field to frame the professional practices of scientists who must differentiate between genuine fossil specimens and modern forgeries. It highlights how practitioners now use advanced technology to maintain the scientific integrity of these historic collections.

How To Fake A Fossil: We Asked Palaeontologists How They'd Do It, And Yes, They Told Us

Read the full article ↗

IFLScience

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