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Mammalian Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mammalian

[məˈmeɪl.i.ən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

biological classification

Mammalian refers to any member of the class Mammalia, a group of warm-blooded vertebrates that possess hair or fur and, in females, mammary glands which produce milk for feeding their young. Mammals include a diverse array of species ranging from tiny shrews to large whales. They are characterized by three middle ear bones, a neocortex in the brain, and specialized teeth adapted to their feeding habits. Mammals are primarily viviparous, giving live birth, with few exceptions such as monotremes, which lay eggs.

Synonyms

furry, mammal, warm-blooded.

Examples of usage

  • Whales are fascinating mammalian creatures of the ocean.
  • The study of mammalian behavior has revealed much about social structures.
  • Mammalian evolution has led to a stunning variety of life forms.
  • Zebras are an example of a terrestrial mammalian species.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Mammals are characterized by having three middle ear bones, which help them hear better than many other animal groups.
  • One unique feature of mammals is the presence of mammary glands, which produce milk for their young.
  • Most mammals have a four-chambered heart, allowing for efficient oxygenation of blood.

Evolution

  • Mammals first appeared around 200 million years ago and evolved from reptilian ancestors.
  • The survival of mammals was greatly aided by their ability to regulate body temperature, allowing them to thrive in various environments.
  • After the extinction of dinosaurs, mammals rapidly diversified and filled new ecological roles.

Cultural Significance

  • Mammals have been symbols of strength, wisdom, and compassion in various cultures and mythologies around the world.
  • In literature, mammals like wolves, bears, and elephants are often portrayed with complex personalities, contributing to their cultural importance.
  • Many mammalian species are domesticated, reflecting their close relationship with humans through agriculture and companionship.

Conservation

  • Many mammals are currently endangered due to habitat loss, climate change, and poaching.
  • Conservation efforts focus on protecting habitats and species, highlighting the importance of biodiversity.
  • Educational campaigns often feature mammals like polar bears and elephants to raise awareness about conservation issues.

Origin of 'mammalian'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mammal' comes from the Latin word 'mammalis', which means 'of the breast', highlighting the importance of milk in these animals.
  • The term was first used in the early 19th century to classify a group of warm-blooded vertebrates.
  • Mammals are divided into three main groups: monotremes (egg-laying), marsupials (pouch-bearing), and placental mammals (those with a developed placenta).

The term 'mammalian' derives from the Latin word 'mamma,' meaning 'breast,' which is a reference to the mammary glands that are a defining characteristic of this class of animals. The classification of mammals began with early taxonomists who recognized the unique features of these creatures in contrast to reptiles and birds. The word itself has evolved over time, becoming a standard term in biological classification following Linnaeus's system of taxonomy in the 18th century. As science progressed, the understanding of mammalian characteristics expanded, leading to a more detailed classification of the vast diversity of species within this group. Today, 'mammalian' encompasses a wide range of animals that share common anatomical and physiological traits, underscoring their evolutionary significance.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,305, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.