Menagerie: meaning, definitions and examples

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menagerie

[məˈnadʒəri ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

collection of animals

A menagerie is a collection of wild animals kept in captivity for exhibition. The term can also refer to a varied mixture of things or a disorganized collection of people.

Synonyms

assortment, collection, variety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
menagerie	Best used when referring to a diverse and often exotic group of animals kept for exhibition or a varied group of things that are a mix or hodgepodge. The zoo features a menagerie of exotic animals from around the world Her room was a menagerie of stuffed animals, posters, and trinkets from her travels
collection	Used when referring to a group of similar items gathered for study, display, or entertainment, often implying careful selection or organized grouping. His collection of vintage cars is quite impressive She has a collection of rare stamps from different countries
assortment	Appropriate when talking about a group of different items or choices, usually implying a random or varied selection. The bakery offers an assortment of pastries and breads She bought an assortment of colorful fabrics for her quilting project
variety	Effective when referring to a range or selection of different types or kinds within a group, emphasizing diversity. The market offers a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables They watched a variety of movies over the weekend

Examples of usage

The zoo had a diverse menagerie of animals from all over the world.
Her house was like a menagerie of different styles and eras.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

chaotic or diverse group

A menagerie can also refer to a chaotic or diverse group of people or things, often with a sense of disorder or lack of organization.

Synonyms

assortment, mixture, variety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
menagerie	Use this word when referring to a diverse collection of animals, typically in a controlled setting like a zoo. It can also be used metaphorically for an eclectic collection of items or people. The circus's menagerie included lions, tigers, and elephants. His room was a menagerie of various collectibles from around the world.
mixture	Use this word when referring to a combination of different elements blended together. It's often used in cooking, science, or any context where things are combined physically or conceptually. The recipe calls for a mixture of flour, sugar, and eggs. Their plan was a mixture of optimism and practicality.
assortment	This word is best used when describing a variety of items grouped together, often in a deliberate or organized manner. It is common in commercial settings. The bakery offers an assortment of pastries every morning. She received an assortment of gifts for her birthday.
variety	This word is suited for situations where diversity or a range of different items, characteristics, or types is emphasized. It implies a wider range than 'assortment'. The garden has a variety of flowers blooming in different colors. She enjoyed a variety of activities during her vacation.

Examples of usage

The conference was a menagerie of conflicting opinions and interests.
The street fair was a menagerie of different cultures and traditions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the French term 'ménagerie', which originally referred to a place where house pets were kept.
It evolved to mean a place with various animals, like zoos, reflecting cultural views on animal collection.

History

Menageries became popular during the 18th century, showcasing exotic animals to the public as a form of entertainment.
Royal courts in Europe often maintained menageries to display power and wealth by possessing rare animals.

Cultural Significance

In literature and film, menageries symbolize the complexity of life and the diversity of existence, often representing a microcosm of society.
Menageries frequently appear in circus performances, beloved for combining entertainment with the exotic appeal of live animals.

Conservation

Today, many menageries and zoos focus on conservation efforts, educating the public about endangered species while providing a habitat.
Menageries can serve as a stepping stone in the conservation movement, highlighting the importance of protecting natural habitats for wildlife.

Modern Usage

In contemporary language, 'menagerie' can refer metaphorically to any diverse collection, such as a group of various objects or ideas.
The term is also used in the arts, particularly in music and theater, to describe a mix of styles or performances.

Translations

Translations of the word "menagerie" in other languages:

🇵🇹 menagerie

🇮🇳 पशुप्रदर्शनी

🇩🇪 Menagerie

🇮🇩 kebun binatang

🇺🇦 менажерія

🇵🇱 menażeria

🇯🇵 動物園

🇫🇷 ménagerie

🇪🇸 menagerie

🇹🇷 menajeri

🇰🇷 동물원

🇸🇦 حديقة حيوانات

🇨🇿 zvěřinec

🇸🇰 zverinec

🇨🇳 动物园

🇸🇮 živalski vrt

🇮🇸 dýragarður

🇰🇿 хайуанаттар бағы

🇬🇪 მენაჟერია

🇦🇿 heyvanat bağı

🇲🇽 menagerie

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,326, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
26323 smudge
26324 dimmer
26325 celebratory
26326 menagerie
26328 fiancee
26329 laudanum
...