cryptozoology

noun

cryp·​to·​zo·​ol·​o·​gy ˌkrip-tə-zō-ˈä-lə-jē How to pronounce cryptozoology (audio)
-zə-ˈwä-
: the study of and search for animals and especially legendary animals (such as Sasquatch) usually in order to evaluate the possibility of their existence
cryptozoological adjective
cryptozoologist noun

Examples of cryptozoology in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Milwaukee County Zoo summer camps The Zoological Society of Milwaukee offers a variety of summer day camp options at the Milwaukee County Zoo, from their stroller safaris for babies and their caregivers, to classes for teenagers who are interested in things like cryptozoology and renewable energy. Amy Schwabe, Journal Sentinel, 25 May 2023 Here zoology and cryptozoology part ways. Kyle Hill, Discover Magazine, 1 Oct. 2013 Skipping cryptozoology’s usual sensationalism, Abominable separates history and folklore from hoaxes and fakelore. Breanna Draxler, Discover Magazine, 22 Oct. 2013 The analysis was the most sophisticated to date but — spoiler alert — the results won't thrill cryptozoology fans. Gemma Tarlach, Discover Magazine, 28 Nov. 2017 Speakers will discuss demonology, ghosts, UFOs, monsters, urban legends and cryptozoology. Susan Dunne, Hartford Courant, 29 Sep. 2022 The Hall of Unnatural History is dominated by cryptozoology, or the study of fantastical creatures such as chupacabras, jackalopes, leprechauns, Mothmen, Bigfoot, dragons, windagos. Susan Dunne, Hartford Courant, 29 Sep. 2022 In recent years, his work began attracting attention from cryptozoology researchers, including those looking for Bigfoot. Matt Blitz, Popular Mechanics, 29 Mar. 2022 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'cryptozoology.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

crypto- + zoology

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cryptozoology was in 1968

Dictionary Entries Near cryptozoology

Cite this Entry

“Cryptozoology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cryptozoology. Accessed 28 Sep. 2023.

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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