Felidae: meaning, definitions and examples
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Felidae
[ ˈfɛlɪdeɪ ]
animal classification
Felidae is the scientific family name for all cats, including domestic cats, lions, tigers, and cheetahs. This family of carnivorous mammals is known for their retractable claws, acute senses, and typically solitary behavior.
Synonyms
cat family, felids
Examples of usage
- The lion belongs to the Felidae family.
- Several species in Felidae are endangered.
- Biologists study the behavior of members of Felidae.
- Felidae is diverse, covering small wildcats to large predators.
Word origin
The term 'Felidae' derives from the Latin word 'felis', meaning cat. This root has been used in various forms since antiquity to denote both domestic and wild cats. The classification of Felidae as a family within the order Carnivora began in the early 19th century as scientists sought to categorize animals based on common characteristics and evolutionary relationships. The family includes a wide range of species, from the large African lion (Panthera leo) to the small domestic cat (Felis catus). Taxonomists have continuously refined the classification of this family, discovering new species and understanding better the genetic links between them, which has led to the current grouping of diverse felids across the world.