entomology

noun

en·​to·​mol·​o·​gy ˌen-tə-ˈmä-lə-jē How to pronounce entomology (audio)
: a branch of zoology that deals with insects
entomological adjective
entomologically adverb
entomologist noun

Examples of entomology in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The rain and floodwater most likely destroyed the insects’ underground nests, in addition to toppling trees or stumps that held nests, said Chris Hayes, an extension associate in urban entomology at North Carolina State University. Erika Edwards, NBC News, 3 Oct. 2024 In a laboratory study published in January, Jose Pietri, an associate entomology professor at Purdue University, and his colleagues showed that bedbugs were capable of both contracting and transmitting MRSA while feeding. Kristen V. Brown, The Atlantic, 4 Dec. 2024 In addition to the shopping, attendees can also take classes on taxidermy, wet specimen preservation, or entomology. Jeff A. Chamer, Charlotte Observer, 21 Feb. 2025 These insects do not bite or sting, according to assistant professor of extension entomology Jonathan Larson, who spoke to the Courier Journal in 2023. Jenny Porter Tilley, The Courier-Journal, 12 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for entomology

Word History

Etymology

French entomologie, from Greek entomon insect (from neuter of entomos cut up, from en- + temnein to cut) + French -logie -logy — more at tome

First Known Use

1764, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of entomology was in 1764

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Entomology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/entomology. Accessed 9 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

entomology

noun
en·​to·​mol·​o·​gy ˌent-ə-ˈmäl-ə-jē How to pronounce entomology (audio)
: a branch of zoology that deals with insects
entomological adjective

Medical Definition

entomology

noun
en·​to·​mol·​o·​gy ˌent-ə-ˈmäl-ə-jē How to pronounce entomology (audio)
plural entomologies
: a branch of zoology that deals with insects
entomological adjective
entomologically adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on entomology

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