Definition: The word "zoology" refers to the study of life in its natural and biological forms. It involves examining the structures, functions, and habits that humans have developed to survive, interact, and adapt in the wild. The word "zoological" is a synonym for zoology, so it also encompasses the scientific study of animals, their habitats, behaviors, and ecological systems. This includes both vertebrates (such as mammals, birds, reptiles, etc.) and invertebrates (such as insects, crustaceans, mollusks, etc.). The term "zoology" is often used interchangeably with "zoological studies," but it does not necessarily refer to the same thing. For a more detailed definition of the word zoology, you can look up online dictionaries or encyclopedias that specialize in science and natural history. Some examples might include: - The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) defines zoology as "the science of animals" in 1863. - The New International Dictionary of Education (NIDe) defines zoology as "the study of life in its natural forms," citing the Oxford English Dictionary, which was updated to reflect changes in scientific understanding from 1975 onward. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.