oceanography

American  

[oh-shuh-nog-ruh-fee, oh-shee-uh-] / ˌoʊ ʃəˈnɒg rə fi, ˌoʊ ʃi ə- /

noun

1. the branch of physical geography dealing with the ocean.

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oceanography British  

/ ˌəʊʃənəˈɡræfɪk, ˌəʊʃɪə-, ˌəʊʃəˈnɒɡrəfɪ, ˌəʊʃɪə- /

noun

1. the branch of science dealing with the physical, chemical, geological, and biological features of the oceans and ocean basins

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oceanography Scientific  

/ ō′shə-nŏg′rə-fē /

1. The scientific study of oceans, the life that inhabits them, and their physical characteristics, including the depth and extent of ocean waters, their movement and chemical makeup, and the topography and composition of the ocean floors. Oceanography also includes ocean exploration.

2. Also called oceanology

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Other Word Forms

• oceanographer noun
• oceanographic adjective
• oceanographical adjective
• oceanographically adverb

Etymology

Origin of oceanography

First recorded in 1855–60; ocean + -o- + -graphy

Example Sentences

It’s possible that what’s needed most to complete the next mission won’t be oceanography or data mining, but costume design.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 6, 2025

The data gathered in the program applies to ecology, weather, oceanography, soil science, biology and satellite calibration/validation research.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 27, 2025

This is "a very clear signature and footprint of a classic Amoc slowdown" says Matthew England, professor of oceanography at the University of South Wales.

From BBC • Jan. 31, 2025

Carlos Moffat, who researches glacier-ocean interactions and polar oceanography at the University of Delaware, said equipment stationed in fjords is commonly crushed by all the movement.

From Science Daily • Mar. 1, 2024

Thanks to him," Novoa proceeded, "oceanography, which scarcely amounted to anything, has become to-day an important study.

From The Enemies of Women (Los enemigos de la mujer) by Blasco Ib??ez, Vicente