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Gorilla Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gorilla

[ษกษ™หˆrษชlษ™ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in the wild

A gorilla is a large ape that is native to Africa. They are known for their strength and intelligence, and they live in close-knit family groups. Gorillas are herbivores, primarily eating fruits and plants.

Synonyms

ape, great ape, primate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gorilla

Use 'gorilla' when specifically referring to the largest primates in the world, native to the forests of central Sub-Saharan Africa. They are often discussed in the context of wildlife, nature documentaries, and zoology.

  • The gorilla is an endangered species due to habitat destruction and poaching.
  • She watched a documentary about a family of gorillas in the wild.
ape

Use 'ape' in a general sense to describe tailless primates, which includes gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and gibbons. 'Ape' is also used metaphorically to describe someone mimicking or copying another.

  • The zoo has a new exhibit featuring various species of apes.
  • He tried to ape his favorite movie starโ€™s style.
primate

The term 'primate' should be used in scientific contexts to classify a diverse group of mammals that includes humans, monkeys, and apes. It is ideal for discussions about evolutionary biology, anatomy, and behavior.

  • Primates have larger brains relative to their body size compared to other animals.
  • Many primate species are arboreal, living most of their lives in trees.
great ape

Reserve 'great ape' for scientific or formal discussions involving larger primates, specifically gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans. This term emphasizes their higher level of intelligence and closer genetic relationship to humans.

  • The great apes share many traits with humans, including complex social behaviors.
  • Conservationists are working to protect the habitats of great apes.

Examples of usage

  • I saw a gorilla in the wild during my safari.
  • Gorillas are endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.
Context #2 | Noun

in captivity

A gorilla is a popular attraction in zoos due to their size and behavior. They are often part of conservation programs to help protect the species. Gorillas in captivity are well cared for and have enrichment activities to keep them mentally stimulated.

Synonyms

captivity, conservation program, zoo.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gorilla

This term is best used when referring to the animal in general, either in the wild or in any setting, ensuring a neutral standpoint.

  • The gorilla is a close relative of humans.
  • Gorillas are known for their strength and intelligence.
captivity

This word is appropriate when talking about animals or people being kept in a confined space, often with a negative connotation.

  • The gorilla has been in captivity for over ten years.
  • Captivity can cause stress for animals who are used to living in the wild.
zoo

This term is used to describe a place where animals are kept for public viewing, education, and sometimes for conservation purposes.

  • The gorilla was transferred to the zoo for better care.
  • Many families visit the zoo to learn about different animals.
conservation program

Use this phrase when discussing efforts to preserve and protect species and their habitats, often implying a positive or beneficial effort.

  • The conservation program aims to increase the population of endangered gorillas.
  • Many zoos participate in conservation programs to help protect wildlife.

Examples of usage

  • The zoo has a family of gorillas for visitors to see.
  • The gorilla sanctuary provides a safe space for rescued apes.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Gorillas share about 98% of their DNA with humans, making them our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.
  • They are highly intelligent creatures, capable of using tools and learning sign language to communicate with humans.

Conservation

  • Gorillas are endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and diseases like Ebola.
  • Conservation efforts focus on protecting their habitats and reducing human impact on their environment.

Pop Culture

  • Gorillas have appeared as characters in movies and media, including King Kong, which became a famous iconic film character.
  • In cartoons, they are often depicted as gentle giants, which helps spread awareness about their true nature.

Behavior

  • Gorillas live in family groups led by a dominant male, known as a silverback, who protects the family and leads them to food.
  • They communicate with each other using a variety of vocalizations, facial expressions, and body language.

Origin of 'gorilla'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'gorilla' comes from the ancient Greek word 'gorillai', which means 'the tribe of hairy women'.
  • Early explorers mistakenly thought they were seeing women in the wild, leading to the name.

The word 'gorilla' is derived from the Greek word 'gorillai' which means 'a tribe of hairy women.' It was first used in the English language in the 19th century to describe the large apes found in Africa. Gorillas are closely related to humans and share a common ancestor. They have been a subject of fascination and study for centuries.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,685, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.