Carcajou: meaning, definitions and examples
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carcajou
[ kär-kä-ˌhü ]
animal species
The carcajou, also known as the wolverine, is a stocky and muscular carnivorous mammal. It is known for its strength and ferocity, especially in relation to its size. Carcajous are primarily found in remote northern regions and are known to scavenge and hunt in harsh conditions.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The carcajou is often seen scavenging for food in the mountains.
- Despite its small size, the carcajou can take down prey much larger than itself.
- Researchers studied the habits of the carcajou in the Arctic tundra.
Word origin
The term 'carcajou' comes from the French language, which derived it from the Algonquin word 'kaskawhoka', referring specifically to the wolverine. The Algonquin language is spoken by several Native American tribes in the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. The word emphasizes the animal's fierce nature and was adopted into French to describe this tenacious creature that roams the wild landscapes of North America. The wolverine is notable for its ability to survive in harsh and cold environments, which further contributed to its semi-mythical status among indigenous peoples. Over time, the use of 'carcajou' spread to other languages, including English, though 'wolverine' remains the more common term in that language. The fascination with this animal extends beyond its physical traits, as it has appeared in various forms of media, signifying resilience and strength against adversity.