Gerbil Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐น
gerbil
[หjษหrbษl ]
Definition
animal, pet
A gerbil is a small, burrowing rodent that is often kept as a pet. They belong to the family Cricetidae and are native to Asia and Africa. Gerbils are known for their friendly nature and adaptability to domestic life.
Synonyms
gerbillinae, sand rat.
Examples of usage
- My gerbil loves to run on its wheel.
- We adopted a gerbil from the pet store.
- Gerbils are social animals and thrive in pairs.
- The children watched the gerbil dig in its bedding.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Domestic Pets
- Gerbils were first domesticated in the 1950s and have become one of the most popular small pets due to their friendly nature.
- They are often compared to hamsters, but gerbils are known to be more social and less likely to bite.
Habitat and Behavior
- In the wild, gerbils are often found in deserts and arid regions of Asia, where they create extensive burrow systems.
- These rodents can store food in their cheek pouches and carry it back to their burrows, showing their instinctual behavior.
Science
- Gerbils are used in scientific research, especially in studies related to hearing, as they have good auditory capabilities.
- These animals are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night, which can make them fun companions for nighttime play.
Cultural References
- In some cultures, gerbils symbolize curiosity and playfulness, often portrayed in children's books and cartoons.
- The popular animated film 'G-Force' features an espionage team of gerbils and other small animals, showcasing their adventurous spirit.
Origin of 'gerbil'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'gerbil' comes from the Latin word 'gerbillus', which was used to describe their small size.
- The first part of the name 'gerbil' is similar to the Latin word 'gerere' meaning 'to bear or carry', which reflects their energetic nature.
The term 'gerbil' originates from the Arabic word 'jarbฤซl', which refers to a kind of small rodent. The use of the word in English dates back to the mid-20th century as these animals began to gain popularity as pets in Western cultures. Gerbils were first studied as laboratory animals in the 1940s, and interest surged in the 1960s when they were introduced to the pet trade. Their easy care and friendly nature have made them particularly popular among children and families. The name has since been adopted widely, and gerbils have become a staple in many households as companion animals.