Dingo: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'dingo' comes from the Gadigal language of the Aboriginal people, where 'dingo' means 'wild dog.'
• Historically, 'dingoes' were first domesticated by Indigenous Australians at least 4,000 years ago.
• The species name for dingoes is 'Canis lupus dingo,' indicating their relation to wolves.

Ecology

• Dingoes play a crucial role in the Australian ecosystem by controlling populations of kangaroos and other herbivores.
• Unlike many domestic dogs, dingoes are primarily nocturnal and are most active at night.
• They have a unique hunting strategy, often cooperating in packs to hunt larger prey.

Culture

• Dingoes feature prominently in Aboriginal mythology, often depicted as totems and creatures of significance.
• In popular culture, dingoes have been represented in films like 'Crocodile Dundee,' highlighting Australia’s wildlife.
• The phrase 'a dingo took my baby' became a worldwide sensation after a tragic event in Australia drew massive media attention.

Conservation

• Dingoes are considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and interbreeding with domestic dogs, impacting their genetic purity.
• Conservation efforts are underway to preserve pure dingo populations and their natural habitats.
• Some Australian national parks have implemented 'dingo protection' zones to help safeguard their environment.

Behavior

• Dingoes have a complex social structure, with strong pack bonds that allow them to hunt and raise pups cooperatively.
• They communicate through a variety of vocalizations, tail positions, and body language to convey different messages.
• Dingoes have excellent hearing and sense of smell, making them adept hunters in the Australian outback.

This word's position of #34,710 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 34707 shocker
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• 34709 hatless
• 34710 dingo
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• 34712 hawkish
• 34713 multigenerational
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