Hibernation: meaning, definitions and examples
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hibernation
[ˌhaɪ.bɚˈneɪ.ʃən ]
Definition
animal behavior
Hibernation is a state of inactivity and metabolic depression in animals, characterized by lower body temperature, slower breathing, and lower metabolic rate. It allows animals to conserve energy during harsh winter conditions.
Synonyms
dormancy, torpor, winter sleep.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hibernation |
Used when referring to the prolonged period of rest or inactivity that animals undergo typically during winter to survive cold temperatures and food scarcity.
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| torpor |
Describes a short-term state of decreased physiological activity in animals, marked by reduced body temperature and metabolic rate, often used daily or seasonally.
|
| dormancy |
Often used in the context of plants, seeds, or any living organism to describe a state of metabolic inactivity for a period usually driven by environmental conditions. It can also be used more broadly to describe any period of inactivity or minimal activity.
|
| winter sleep |
A layman's term, less scientific, used to describe the period of rest or dormancy animals enter during winter.
|
Examples of usage
- During hibernation, bears can survive for months without eating or drinking.
- Some reptiles go into hibernation to escape the cold temperatures.
- Hibernation is a survival strategy for many animals in cold climates.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'hibernation' comes from the Latin word 'hibernare,' which means 'to spend the winter.'
- The use of 'hibernation' in English dates back to the early 19th century, reflecting the scientific study of animal behavior.
- In addition to animals, the word can also refer to a state of inactivity or dormancy in other organisms, such as certain plants.
Animal Behavior
- Different species hibernate in various ways; for example, bears go into a deep sleep, while some small mammals have lighter sleep patterns.
- Not all animals hibernate; some enter a state called torpor, which is a lighter form of sleep that lasts for shorter periods.
- Hibernating animals can significantly lower their heart rates and body temperatures, allowing them to survive on stored fat reserves.
Climate Adaptation
- Hibernation is a critical survival strategy for many species, especially in regions with harsh winters where food is scarce.
- The ability to hibernate may be the reason some species have evolved to live in colder climates, helping them manage environmental challenges.
- During hibernation, animals may awaken briefly during warmer weather to eat or drink, if the conditions allow.
Cultural References
- Hibernation often appears in children's stories and cartoons, showing cuddly animals preparing for winter sleep.
- The concept of hibernation is popular in folklore, representing themes of rest and rejuvenation during tough times.
- In popular culture, animated films sometimes depict characters, like bears, humorously preparing for hibernation, highlighting its charm.
Scientific Research
- Researchers study hibernation to learn about its effects on body metabolism, which could have implications for human health.
- Some scientists explore the potential for using hibernation-like states in space travel to help astronauts endure long journeys.
- Understanding hibernation may help in conserving endangered species by mimicking their natural behaviors in controlled environments.
Translations
Translations of the word "hibernation" in other languages:
🇵🇹 hibernação
🇮🇳 शीतनिद्रा
🇩🇪 Winterschlaf
🇮🇩 hibernasi
🇺🇦 сплячка
🇵🇱 hibernacja
🇯🇵 冬眠 (とうみん)
🇫🇷 hibernation
🇪🇸 hibernación
🇹🇷 kış uykusu
🇰🇷 겨울잠
🇸🇦 سبات شتوي
🇨🇿 hibernace
🇸🇰 hibernácia
🇨🇳 冬眠 (dōngmián)
🇸🇮 hibernacija
🇮🇸 vetrardvali
🇰🇿 қысқы ұйқы
🇬🇪 ზამთრის ძილი
🇦🇿 qış yuxusu
🇲🇽 hibernación