Zoo: meaning, definitions and examples
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zoo
[zuː ]
Definition
animal park
A zoo is a place where animals are kept for public viewing and conservation purposes. Zoos typically have a wide variety of animals from all over the world, ranging from mammals to reptiles to birds. Zoos play a crucial role in education, research, and conservation efforts.
Synonyms
animal park, menagerie, wildlife sanctuary.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| zoo |
A place where animals are kept for public viewing, often focusing on education, entertainment, and conservation. Usually found in urban or suburban areas.
|
| animal park |
Similar to a zoo, but often larger and more spread out, sometimes featuring safari-like experiences. May emphasize theme park elements.
|
| menagerie |
A historical term for a collection of captive animals, sometimes used in a literary or old-fashioned context. Can imply a disorganized or unusual assortment.
|
| wildlife sanctuary |
A protected area specifically designed for the conservation and rehabilitation of wildlife. Focuses on giving animals a natural habitat and may limit human interaction.
|
Examples of usage
- The children were excited to visit the zoo and see all the different animals.
- The zookeeper takes good care of the animals in the zoo.
- Many zoos participate in breeding programs to help endangered species.
- Visiting the zoo can be a fun and educational experience for people of all ages.
- Zoos often organize special events and programs to raise awareness about wildlife conservation.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The concept of a zoo dates back to ancient civilizations, with the first recorded zoo established in ancient Egypt around 2500 BC.
- In the 18th century, the term 'zoological park' became more popular, reflecting the focus on scientific study as well as entertainment.
- The London Zoo, opened in 1828, was the first zoo to be established for scientific purposes, leading to a new era of animal care.
Animal Conservation
- Many modern zoos participate in breeding programs to help endangered species survive.
- Zoos play a crucial role in global conservation efforts, educating the public about wildlife protection.
- Some zoos are now focusing on creating naturalistic habitats to mimic the animals' wild environments, enhancing their well-being.
Pop Culture
- Zoos have inspired numerous films and cartoons, like 'Madagascar' and 'Zootopia,' highlighting animal adventures and friendships.
- Zoo-related merchandise is popular, with toys, books, and clothing emphasizing the fun and educational aspects of learning about animals.
- Reality TV shows and documentaries often explore life in zoos, showcasing both the challenges and joys of animal care.
Psychology
- Visiting zoos has been linked to reduced stress and increased happiness, as interaction with animals can boost mood.
- Research indicates that observing animals can foster empathy and understanding among children towards wildlife.
- Animal encounters in a zoo can enhance learning experiences, as visitors retain more information when they engage with animals.
Education
- Zoos offer educational programs for schools, providing hands-on learning about biology, ecology, and conservation.
- Animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours help students connect theory with real-life examples.
- Many zoos collaborate with universities for research purposes, contributing to scientific knowledge about animal behavior and health.
Translations
Translations of the word "zoo" in other languages:
🇵🇹 zoológico
🇮🇳 चिड़ियाघर
🇩🇪 Zoo
🇮🇩 kebun binatang
🇺🇦 зоопарк
🇵🇱 zoo
🇯🇵 動物園 (どうぶつえん)
🇫🇷 zoo
🇪🇸 zoológico
🇹🇷 hayvanat bahçesi
🇰🇷 동물원
🇸🇦 حديقة الحيوان
🇨🇿 zoo
🇸🇰 zoo
🇨🇳 动物园 (dòngwùyuán)
🇸🇮 živalski vrt
🇮🇸 dýragarður
🇰🇿 зообақ
🇬🇪 ზოოპარკი
🇦🇿 zoopark
🇲🇽 zoológico