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Mary Anning

Definition

Mary Anning was a British fossil collector and dealer who lived in the 19th century. She is best known for her discovery of the first complete ichthyosaur skeleton in 1811 when she was just 12 years old.

Anning was born in Lyme Regis, England, in 1799. She was the daughter of a cabinetmaker who also collected fossils. Anning began collecting fossils at a young age, and she quickly became an expert in the field.

Anning's discoveries were important because they helped to change our understanding of the history of life on Earth. Her work also helped to popularise the study of fossils, and she inspired a generation of scientists and collectors.

Anning was a pioneer in the field of palaeontology. She faced many challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, but she never gave up her passion for fossils. She is remembered as one of the most important figures in the history of palaeontology.

How can the word be used?

Mary Anning was a British fossil hunter and paleontologist who is considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of paleontology.

Mary Anning

Different forms of the word

There are no different forms of the word "Mary Anning" because it is a proper noun.

Etymology

The name "Mary Anning" is of English origin. It is a compound name, made up of the following elements:

Mary: This is a common female name of Hebrew origin, meaning "bitter" or "sea of bitterness".

Anning: This is a surname of English origin, meaning "dweller at the headland".

Question

Who is Mary Anning and why is she famous?