Definition

The study of how organisms become fossilized and the conditions that affect this process.

Example

Taphonomy helps scientists understand how ancient life forms were preserved in the fossil record.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of taphonomy before?

Yeah, it’s the study of how fossils form, right?

Exactly! I find it fascinating how conditions affect the remains.

Me too! It really shows how much we can learn from the past.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Taphonomy → It is formed from "taphos" (from Greek, meaning tomb or burial) and "nomos" (from Greek, meaning law or study). The word refers to the study of the processes of decay and fossilization that occur after an organism's death, particularly in relation to burial and preservation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taphos' meaning tomb, and 'nomos' meaning study — this helps you remember that taphonomy is the study of what happens to organisms after they are buried.

Visually Confused Words