OpenSynonym

zoo

/zuː/

NOUN

1. Place where animals are exhibited

A facility or park where living animals are kept, cared for, and displayed to the public for education, conservation, research, and recreation.

1.1. Animal exhibition and wildlife facilities

Used to describe a public facility or designated park where visitors can observe different species of animals in managed habitats or enclosures.

Synonyms

  • zoological garden
  • animal park
  • wildlife park

Examples

  • My family and I visited the local zoo to see the exotic animals from around the world.
  • The children were excited to spend the day at the zoo, observing and learning about different species.
  • During the school field trip, the students explored the fascinating exhibits at the zoo.
  • We packed a picnic lunch and enjoyed a sunny day at the zoo surrounded by nature and wildlife.

Related Words

NOUN

2. Chaotic or disorderly place

A place characterized by confusion, excessive activity, noise, disorder, or uncontrolled behavior, often involving many people or simultaneous events.

2.1. Crowded and noisy environments

Used informally to describe a busy, overcrowded, or noisy place where numerous people or activities create an atmosphere of confusion and commotion.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The shopping mall was a zoo during the holiday season.
  • The office became a zoo when everyone tried to meet the deadline at the same time.
  • The classroom turned into a zoo when the teacher briefly left the room.
  • The airport was a complete zoo after several flights were canceled.

Related Words

  • crowd
  • commotion
  • hubbub
  • uproar
  • racket
  • confusion
  • disorder
  • turmoil

2.2. Wild and uncontrolled surroundings

Used figuratively to describe an environment that resembles a jungle or a chaotic, unpredictable place where confusion, disorder, or uncontrolled behavior prevails.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • Without proper management, the construction site became a zoo.
  • The crowded marketplace was a zoo, with vendors shouting and people pushing through the narrow streets.
  • The political debate turned into a zoo when the participants started shouting over one another.

Related Words