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Ecological Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ecological

[ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

environmental protection

Relating to or concerned with the relation of living organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings.

Synonyms

environment-friendly, environmental, green.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ecological

Reference to the relationships between living organisms and their environment or ecosystems. Often used in scientific contexts or when discussing broader environmental impact.

  • The project aims to reduce the ecological footprint of urban areas.
  • Ecological studies show a decline in the bird population.
environmental

Relates to the environment and often used in legal, scientific, and policy-making contexts. It can encompass a wide range of issues including pollution, conservation, and climate change.

  • Environmental regulations are getting stricter.
  • She studies environmental science.
green

Casually used to refer to practices, products, or attitudes that protect the environment. Often used in everyday conversation, marketing, and media. This word has many meanings, so context is key.

  • They are committed to going green at their office.
  • Green energy solutions are gaining popularity.
environment-friendly

Similar to 'eco-friendly', but slightly more formal. Describes actions, policies, and products that are beneficial or not harmful to the environment.

  • The company adopted environment-friendly practices.
  • Environment-friendly policies can help combat climate change.

Examples of usage

  • Ecological balance is essential for the survival of various species.
  • The company is committed to implementing ecological practices to reduce its carbon footprint.
Context #2 | Noun

study of ecosystems

The branch of biology that deals with the relations of organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings.

Synonyms

ecology, environmental science, environmental studies.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ecological

This adjective is primarily used to talk about relationships between living organisms and their environment. It often describes processes, changes, impacts, or crises involving ecosystems.

  • The company's product design aims at reducing its ecological footprint.
  • They conducted an ecological survey to study the impact on local wildlife.
environmental science

Employ this term when discussing an interdisciplinary field that combines biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences to study the environment and solve environmental problems.

  • She majored in environmental science because she wants to create solutions for pollution.
  • The environmental science program at the university is highly regarded.
ecology

Use this noun when referring to the scientific study of relationships between organisms and their environment. It is often found in academic or research contexts.

  • She is studying ecology to understand how different species interact in the rainforest.
  • His research focuses on the ecology of coral reefs.
environmental studies

Refer to this interdisciplinary academic field when you're discussing the broader study of the environment and its relationship with human activity. It includes subjects such as policy, ethics, and social sciences.

  • He enrolled in environmental studies to learn about the social impacts of climate change.
  • The environmental studies curriculum covers both scientific and policy-related topics.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to pursue a career in ecological after studying the impact of climate change on marine life.
  • Ecological is crucial in understanding the complex interactions within ecosystems.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Ecology as a scientific field helps us understand how ecosystems function and the importance of biodiversity.
  • Studies in this field have illuminated how even small changes in one species can have ripple effects throughout an ecosystem.
  • Ecologists often use models to predict the impacts of climate change on various habitats.

Pop Culture

  • Many popular films and books emphasize ecological themes, such as 'Avatar,' which highlights harmony between nature and technology.
  • The term often appears in discussions at international events for climate and environmental awareness, capturing public interest.
  • Eco-conscious celebrities frequently advocate for ecological practices, influencing fans through lifestyle choices.

Psychology

  • Research shows that spending time in nature can improve mental health, linking ecological surroundings to well-being.
  • Understanding ecological principles helps individuals develop a sense of responsibility towards the environment, known as eco-awareness.
  • The psychology of environmentalism studies what motivates people to engage in sustainable practices.

Literature

  • Many literary works explore ecological themes, such as Rachel Carson's 'Silent Spring', which raised awareness about environmental issues.
  • Authors have used nature and its relationship with humanity as a metaphor for personal growth and conflict resolution.
  • Ecocriticism is a literary approach that examines the representation of nature in literature and its role in shaping human values.

Origin of 'ecological'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'oikos', meaning 'house'; it represents the relationship between living organisms and their homes in nature.
  • It was first used in the late 19th century to describe how different species interact within their environment.
  • The 'eco-' prefix has become widely adopted, often seen in terms like 'ecosystem' and 'economy', showing connections to our world.

The word 'ecological' originates from the Greek word 'oikos' meaning 'house' or 'dwelling'. The term was first introduced in the mid-19th century to describe the interdependence of living organisms and their environment. Since then, the concept of ecological has become increasingly important in the context of environmental conservation and sustainability efforts.

See also: ecologist.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,670 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.