conchology
(kɒŋˈkɒlədʒɪ)
[mod. f. Gr. κογχο- comb. form of κόγχη shell: see -logy.]
The science or study of shells and shell-fish.
This term, which came into use when the mollusca were studied almost exclusively in reference to their shells, is now left chiefly to collectors of the latter.
| 1776 Da Costa Conchol. 2 This peculiar branch of the History of Nature I shall call Conchology. 1851 Richardson Geol. iv. 66 An extensive and well-founded acquaintance with conchology. 1862 Athenæum 30 Aug. 280 Familiar with..fossil conchology. 1878 Smiles Robt. Dick v. 41 His walks..awakened in him a taste for conchology. |