Feral: meaning, definitions and examples

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feral

[ˈfɪərəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

animal behavior

existing in a wild or untamed state, especially after domestication or captivity

Synonyms

savage, untamed, wild.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
feral	Typically describes animals that were once domesticated but have returned to a wild state, can also imply unruly or wild behavior in humans. The feral cats roamed the abandoned building His temper was almost feral during the argument
wild	A general term for something that is not domesticated, controlled, or cultivated. Can describe animals, nature, or even behavior. Wild horses still roam the prairie His ideas were wild and unconventional
untamed	Refers to something that has not been domesticated or controlled, often used for nature or animals. The untamed wilderness stretches for miles Her spirit was untamed and free
savage	Conveys a sense of extreme violence, cruelty, or lack of civilization, often has a negative connotation. The savage attack left the community in shock Their rivalry turned savage on the football field

Examples of usage

The feral cat refused to come near any humans.
The feral dog had a thick coat to protect itself from the harsh winter weather.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

person behavior

having reverted to the wild state, as from domestication

Synonyms

barbaric, savage, uncivilized.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
feral	Used to describe animals or plants that have reverted to a wild state from domestication. It can also describe humans in less formal contexts, implying a wild and uncontrollable nature. The feral cats roamed the streets, scavenging for food. His behavior at the party was almost feral, completely untamed.
savage	Describes something wild, fierce, and uncontrolled. It can also describe cruel and aggressive behavior, often with a sense of brutality. The tribe was known for its savage customs during war. She gave him a savage glare, filled with contempt.
barbaric	Typically refers to actions or behaviors that are extremely cruel, uncivilized, or primitive. It often carries a negative connotation. The barbaric practices of the ancient warriors are shocking by today's standards. Her screams were met with barbaric laughter from the captors.
uncivilized	Used to describe people or societies that lack cultural, social, or moral development. It has a negative connotation, implying a lack of refinement or sophistication. The explorers considered the remote tribes to be uncivilized due to their primitive lifestyle. He acted in an uncivilized manner, showing no respect for others.

Examples of usage

The feral child had difficulty adjusting to life in society.
His feral instincts took over in the face of danger.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'feral' comes from the Latin 'feralis', meaning 'wild' or 'savage'.
It was originally used to describe domesticated animals that returned to a wild state.
In historical texts, 'feral' was often applied to wild horses and cattle that roamed freely.

Wildlife Conservation

Feral species can often disrupt local ecosystems, competing with native species for resources.
In many regions, feral cats are a significant environmental concern, affecting bird populations.
Conservationists often work to manage feral animal populations to protect native wildlife.

Literature

The concept of the 'feral child' has appeared in various literary works, exploring themes of nature versus nurture.
Feral creatures often symbolize a return to primal instincts and the untamed aspects of humanity in literature.
Books like 'Lord of the Flies' delve into the feral nature of humans when removed from societal norms.

Pop Culture

Feral creatures are common in films and video games, often portrayed as fierce challenges to characters.
The term is popular in horror and fantasy genres—think of feral vampires or werewolves.
In animated shows, feral animals are sometimes depicted as cute but wild characters, adding humor or conflict.

Psychology

The idea of feral behavior can be linked to discussions about human instincts and societal conditioning.
Psychologists study feral children to understand human development and the impact of socialization.
Feral instincts can highlight the tension between civilization and innate survival drives in humans.

Translations

Translations of the word "feral" in other languages:

🇵🇹 selvagem

🇮🇳 जंगली

🇩🇪 wild

🇮🇩 liar

🇺🇦 дикий

🇵🇱 dziki

🇯🇵 野生

🇫🇷 sauvage

🇪🇸 salvaje

🇹🇷 vahşi

🇰🇷 야생의

🇸🇦 بري

🇨🇿 divoký

🇸🇰 divoký

🇨🇳 野生的

🇸🇮 divji

🇮🇸 villtur

🇰🇿 жабайы

🇬🇪 ველური

🇦🇿 vəhşi

🇲🇽 salvaje

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,657, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
22654 decoupling
22655 stealthily
22656 cerebrum
22657 feral
22658 fatherly
22659 sanctify
22660 factional
...