Mandril Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mandril
[ˈmæn.drɪl ]
Definition
animal species
The mandrill is a large, colorful monkey found in the rainforests of Central Africa. It is known for its distinctive face, which features bright blue and red skin, and its long canine teeth. Mandrills are social animals that live in groups called hordes, led by a dominant male. They primarily feed on fruits, seeds, and insects, and are known for their powerful limbs that help them navigate through the forest. Mandrills are considered a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and hunting.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The mandrill is often confused with baboons.
- Wildlife documentaries often feature mandrills in their natural habitat.
- Mandrills use their vibrant facial features to communicate with one another.
- The mandrill's size and strength make it the largest of all monkeys.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Mandrills are the largest species of monkey, with males weighing up to 119 pounds and exhibiting vivid coloration on their faces and rumps.
- Their bright coloring is not just for show; it's a way to communicate and attract mates, especially during the breeding season.
Cultural Significance
- Mandrills have often appeared in popular media, like Disney's animated film 'The Lion King', where a character inspired by them, Rafiki, is known for his wisdom.
- In some cultures, mandrills are seen as symbols of strength and leadership, often depicted in sculptures and paintings.
Conservation
- The loss of habitat due to deforestation and hunting has made mandrills classified as vulnerable, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
- Organizations are working to protect their natural habitats in Central Africa, where they primarily reside in rainforests.
Behavior
- Mandrills are highly social animals, living in large groups called troops which can include up to 600 individuals.
- They communicate using a variety of vocalizations, facial expressions, and body language, demonstrating complex social behaviors.
Origin of 'mandril'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'mandrill' comes from the Latin 'Mandrillus' which is derived from 'man' and 'drill', possibly referring to its resemblance to the drill monkey.
- The name was first documented in the 18th century, reflecting the fascination with exotic animals during the age of exploration.
The term 'mandrill' originates from the early 16th century, derived from the combination of the Middle Dutch word 'mandril' and 'dril', which means 'male monkey.' The word gained prominence as European explorers encountered this striking primate during their expeditions in Africa. Descriptions of the mandrill's physical characteristics and behavior were documented by naturalists, leading to its classification within the genus Mandrillus. Over time, the mandrill has become an iconic symbol of biodiversity in African rainforests. The vivid coloration of the mandrill's facial features has made it a subject of artistic representation and cultural fascination, occasionally appearing in literature and folklore.