who's who in the zoo
English
[edit]Etymology
[edit]Likely in reference to Who's Who, the British publication of biographies for the upper class, first published in 1849. Numerous works titled Who's Who In the Zoo? have been published describing animals in specific or generic zoos.
Noun
[edit]- (informal) The identities and roles of people in an organisation or area.
- When you join a company, it's important to start by learning who's who in the zoo.
- 2007 June 30, James J. F. Forest, Countering Terrorism and Insurgency in the 21st Century: International Perspectives [3 volumes], Bloomsbury Publishing USA, →ISBN, page 215:
- The most important aspect in investigative work is identifying potential sources, analyzing the nature and depth of their relationships with the fugitives and their relationships with other family members and business associates. According to the Los Angeles U.S. Marshals Task Force Commander, Chief Inspector John Clark, it is all about knowing "who's who in the zoo."
- 2024 June 1, Logan Mind, Emotional Intelligence for Social Success: Enhance Your Relationship Skills. Practical Strategies to Communicate Effectively, Manage Conflicts, and Build Deep Connections, Publishing 360:
- Next up, identify the key players and their roles. Every group has its movers and shakers. Maybe there's one person cracking all the jokes, while another's calling the shots. There could also be quieter folks happy to let others take the lead. Pick out these roles, and you'll get a better grip on how the group ticks and who's who in the zoo.