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Amphibian Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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amphibian

[amˈfɪbɪən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal classification

An amphibian is a cold-blooded vertebrate animal of a class that comprises frogs, toads, newts, and salamanders. They typically have an aquatic larval stage followed by a terrestrial adult stage.

Examples of usage

  • Amphibians are known for their ability to live both on land and in water.
  • Frogs and toads are examples of amphibians.
Context #2 | Adjective

dual nature

Amphibian can also refer to something that is capable of functioning in two different ways or having a dual nature.

Examples of usage

  • His amphibian personality allowed him to adapt to various social situations.
  • The company's amphibian approach to marketing proved to be successful.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Amphibians usually undergo metamorphosis, starting life as eggs, then hatching into aquatic larvae before developing into adults.
  • They typically have permeable skin, which allows them to absorb water and oxygen, making them very sensitive to environmental changes.

Ecology

  • Amphibians play a crucial role in ecosystems as both predators and prey, influencing the populations of insects and other small creatures.
  • Many species are indicators of environmental health; declines in their populations can signal habitat issues or pollution.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, frogs symbolized transformation and renewal due to their metamorphic life cycle.
  • In some indigenous traditions, amphibians are seen as spiritual guides, bringing messages between water and land.

Conservation Challenges

  • Amphibians are among the most threatened groups of animals worldwide, facing habitat loss, climate change, and diseases like chytridiomycosis.
  • Efforts are being made globally to conserve amphibian populations, including breeding programs and habitat restoration projects.

Origin of 'amphibian'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'amphibian' comes from the Greek words 'amphibios', meaning 'both kinds of life'.
  • The term has been used since the 19th century to categorize creatures that can thrive in both aquatic and terrestrial environments.

The word 'amphibian' comes from the Greek word 'amphibios', which means 'living a double life'. It was first used in the 17th century to describe a group of animals that could live both in water and on land. Amphibians have fascinated humans for centuries with their unique characteristics and adaptations to different environments.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,677, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.