Carnivores Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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carnivores
[ˈkɑːrnəvɔːrz ]
Definition
animals
Carnivores are animals that primarily feed on meat. They are often referred to as predators in the animal kingdom.
Synonyms
meat-eaters, predators.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| carnivores |
Used in scientific contexts or when talking about animals that primarily consume meat. It is a general term that includes both wild and domesticated species.
|
| predators |
Used when talking about animals that hunt other animals for food. It emphasizes the hunting aspect and often has a more specific connotation.
|
| meat-eaters |
Used in casual conversation or everyday language. It can refer to both humans and animals that eat meat.
|
Examples of usage
- They have sharp teeth and claws to help them catch and eat their prey.
- Lions, tigers, and wolves are examples of carnivores.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- Carnivores typically have sharp teeth and claws, allowing them to effectively kill and eat their prey.
- Their digestive systems are designed to process protein efficiently, often with shorter intestines compared to herbivores.
- Some carnivores, like wolves, can work in packs to hunt larger animals, showcasing complex social behaviors.
Ecology
- Carnivores play a crucial role in ecosystems as predators, helping to control the populations of other animals.
- They are often seen as indicators of a healthy environment, as their presence reflects a balanced food web.
- In particular, apex predators, such as tigers and great white sharks, sit at the top of the food chain and have major impacts on their habitats.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'The Lion King' and 'Jurassic Park' feature carnivorous animals and explore their roles in nature.
- The term has been used in popular music, with some songs and albums referencing carnivorous themes, capturing fascination with predatory behavior.
Culinary
- In culinary terms, 'carnivore' can refer to diets focused on meat, like the carnivore diet, which excludes most plant-based foods.
- Restaurants with 'carnivore' themes may specialize in meats, providing a unique dining experience for meat lovers.
Origin of 'carnivores'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'carnivore' comes from the Latin words 'caro' meaning 'flesh' and 'vorare' meaning 'to devour.'
- The term first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, originally describing flesh-eating animals.
The term "carnivore" originated from the Latin words "caro" meaning flesh and "vorare" meaning to devour. It has been used in the English language since the 1840s to describe animals that primarily consume meat.