Hoglet: meaning, definitions and examples

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hoglet

 

[ˈhɒɡlət ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cute animal

A hoglet is a young hedgehog, typically born in the spring. They are small and spiky, with a snuffling nose and a curly tail. Hoglets are known for their timid nature and nocturnal habits.

Synonyms

baby hedgehog, hogling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hoglet

This term can be used in general conversation or writing when referring to a young hedgehog in a specific and somewhat scientific or informal way.

  • "Look at the little hoglet exploring the garden!"
baby hedgehog

Ideal for everyday or casual conversation, especially for people who may not be familiar with more specific terminology. Suitable for speaking to children or a general audience.

  • "We found a baby hedgehog in our backyard yesterday
  • "
hogling

This term is less common and might be used in creative writing or by enthusiasts wanting to add variety to their vocabulary when discussing young hedgehogs.

  • "The hogling curled up into a tiny ball
  • "

Examples of usage

  • The hoglet curled into a ball when it sensed danger nearby.
  • Hoglets are often found in gardens searching for insects to eat.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term originates from British English, where 'hog' refers to a hedgehog, and the diminutive suffix '-let' indicates youth.
  • The word has been used in literature since at least the early 20th century, showcasing the charm of young hedgehogs.
  • Similar words include 'piglet' for baby pigs, reflecting a pattern in naming small animals in English.

Biology

  • Hoglets are born blind and without spines; their spines develop a few weeks after birth.
  • As they grow, they undergo a unique process called 'quilling,' where new spines push out the softer baby quills.
  • Hedgehogs are nocturnal, meaning hoglets start their nighttime adventures shortly after they become more mobile.

Cultural Significance

  • In British folklore, hedgehogs, including hoglets, are seen as symbols of protection and domesticity.
  • Hoglets and their mothers feature in children’s books, making them relatable and educational as characters in stories.
  • Some people keep hedgehogs as pets, often sharing amusing stories about their hoglet's playful behaviors.

Conservation

  • In many regions, hedgehogs are protected due to declining populations, making the survival of hoglets essential for species continuity.
  • Hedgehog rescuers often take in orphaned hoglets to rehabilitate and release them back into the wild.
  • Creating gardens safe for hoglets involves removing hazards and providing shelters to support their habitats.

Ecology

  • Hoglets play a specific role in the ecosystem as both predators and prey, helping to balance insect populations.
  • As they grow, they transition from a diet of milk to foraging for insects and snacks, which impacts their growth and health.
  • The presence of hoglets in an area can indicate a healthy environment, as they thrive in rich, diverse ecosystems.

Translations

Translations of the word "hoglet" in other languages:

🇵🇹 porquinho-da-índia

🇮🇳 छोटा साही (chota saahi)

🇩🇪 Igelbaby

🇮🇩 bayi landak

🇺🇦 їжаченя

🇵🇱 jeżyk

🇯🇵 ハリネズミの赤ちゃん (harinezumi no akachan)

🇫🇷 bébé hérisson

🇪🇸 erizo bebé

🇹🇷 kirpi yavrusu

🇰🇷 고슴도치 새끼 (goseumdochi saekki)

🇸🇦 صغير القنفذ (saghir alqanfadh)

🇨🇿 ježek mládě

🇸🇰 mláďa ježa

🇨🇳 小刺猬 (xiǎo cìwèi)

🇸🇮 mladič ježa

🇮🇸 broddgöltur

🇰🇿 кірпі баласы

🇬🇪 ზღარბის ბავშვი (zg'arbis bavshvi)

🇦🇿 kirpi balası

🇲🇽 erizo bebé