Langimage
English

zoo

|zoo|

A1

/zuː/

animal enclosure

Etymology
Etymology Information

'zoo' originates from 'zoological garden', where 'zoological' is derived from the Greek word 'zōion', meaning 'animal'.

Historical Evolution

'zoological garden' was shortened to 'zoo' in the 19th century, becoming the modern English word 'zoo'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred to a 'zoological garden', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a place where animals are kept for public viewing'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a facility where animals are kept in enclosures for public viewing.

We visited the zoo to see the new panda exhibit.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35