Elephant: meaning, definitions and examples

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elephant

 

[หˆษ›lษชfษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

large mammal

A very large animal with a long trunk, large ears, and tusks. Elephants are known for their intelligence, memory, and social behavior. They are herbivores and typically live in groups called herds.

Synonyms

jumbo, pachyderm, tusker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
elephant

Used in a general or scientific context to refer to the large mammal known for its trunk and tusks.

  • We saw a herd of elephants at the safari.
  • Elephants are known for their impressive memory.
pachyderm

A more scientific or formal way to refer to large, thick-skinned animals, including elephants, rhinoceroses, and hippos.

  • The pachyderms at the zoo include not just elephants, but also rhinoceroses.
  • Pachyderms typically have very tough skin.
jumbo

Informal and colloquial, often used to emphasize the large size of an object or animal. Can sometimes sound humorous or playful.

  • That airplane is a real jumbo!
  • Look at that jumbo sandwich you ordered!
tusker

Specifically refers to elephants that have prominent tusks. Often used when discussing the characteristics or hunting of these elephants.

  • The hunter was proud of his trophy, a giant tusker.
  • Tusker elephants are sadly targeted for their ivory.

Examples of usage

  • The elephant's trunk is a versatile tool used for eating, drinking, and communication.
  • Elephants are able to remember and recognize other individuals for many years.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'elephant' comes from the Greek word 'elephas,' meaning ivory, which refers to their tusks.
  • In Latin, it was 'elephas' with similar meaning, showing connection across languages for this majestic animal.

Cultural Significance

  • In Hindu culture, the elephant is represented by Ganesh, a deity symbolizing wisdom and good fortune.
  • Elephants are symbols of strength and loyalty in many African cultures, often featured in folklore and festivals.

Science and Nature

  • The African bush elephant is the largest land animal, reaching up to 13 feet tall at the shoulder.
  • Elephants have a highly developed social structure, often living in matriarchal herds that care for their young together.

Pop Culture

  • The beloved character Dumbo, from Disney, is an elephant known for his big ears and ability to fly.
  • Elephants often star in documentaries and movies, showcasing their beauty, intelligence, and family bonds.

Environmental Impact

  • Elephants play a crucial role in their ecosystems by creating paths through dense forests, aiding other animals.
  • The presence of elephants helps maintain the landscape and biodiversity, emphasizing their importance to the environment.

Translations

Translations of the word "elephant" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น elefante

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคนเคพเคฅเฅ€

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Elefant

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ gajah

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ัะปะพะฝ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ sล‚oล„

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ่ฑก (ใžใ†)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท รฉlรฉphant

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ elefante

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท fil

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ฝ”๋ผ๋ฆฌ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ููŠู„

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ slon

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ slon

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅคง่ฑก (dร xiร ng)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ slon

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ fรญll

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะฟั–ะป

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒกแƒžแƒ˜แƒšแƒ (sp'ilo)

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ fil

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ elefante

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,778 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.