Ant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
ant
[รฆnt ]
Definitions
insect
A small insect typically having a sting and living in a complex social colony with one or more breeding queens.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ant |
Use when referring to the common small insect found in colonies, often in casual conversations or simple descriptions.
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| insect |
Use to refer to ants as part of the broader category of small, six-legged animals, often in educational or scientific contexts.
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| formic |
Use in scientific or formal contexts to refer to anything relating to ants.
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Examples of usage
- The ant carried the food back to the nest.
- Ants work together to build intricate underground tunnels.
person
A person who is diligent, hardworking, and cooperative.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ant |
Used to refer to the small insect commonly found in colonies, used metaphorically to describe someone who is hardworking and works well within a team.
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| diligent |
Describes a person who works with careful and persistent effort, often used in professional or academic settings.
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| industrious |
Refers to someone who is hardworking and productive, often used to highlight a person's dedication to their work or tasks.
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Examples of usage
- She's the ant of the team, always working tirelessly to get the job done.
- He's known as the ant of the office because of his work ethic.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Ants can lift objects that are 50 times their own body weight, showcasing incredible strength relative to their size.
- There are over 12,000 known species of ants, and scientists believe there are many yet to be discovered.
- Some ant species can survive underwater for extended periods by creating air bubbles with their own bodies.
Culture
- Ants are often depicted in children's stories and cartoons, highlighting their teamwork and industrious nature.
- In many cultures, ants symbolize diligence and community, often representing people working hard towards a common goal.
Environment
- Ants play a crucial role in the ecosystem by aerating the soil and breaking down organic material, which helps plants grow.
- Some species of ants farm aphids for their sugary secretions, showcasing a unique form of agriculture.
Origin of 'ant'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'ant' comes from Old English 'วฃme,' which traces back to Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European roots that mean 'to be' or 'to rise.'
- In many languages, the word for ant is similar; for example, in Spanish, it's 'hormiga' which has roots in Latin.
The word 'ant' originated from Old English 'วฃmette' which is of Germanic origin. It has been used to refer to the insect since the late Old English period. The figurative use of 'ant' to describe a diligent person emerged in the 16th century.