Definition

A scientist who studies ancient plants and their fossils to understand the history of plant life on Earth.

Example

The paleobotanist discovered a new species of fern from the fossil record.

Conversation

Did you know that a paleobotanist studies ancient plants?

Really? I didn't know that was a specific field.

Yeah, they can tell us a lot about Earth's history through fossils.

That sounds fascinating! I would love to learn more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Paleobotanist → It is formed from "paleo-" (from Greek "palaios", meaning ancient) and "botanist" (from Greek "botanē", meaning plant, and "-ist", meaning one who practices or specializes in). The word refers to a specialist in ancient plants.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ancient' ('paleo-') plants ('botanist') to remember that a paleobotanist studies ancient plant life.

Visually Confused Words