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Mongoose Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mongoose

[ˈmɒŋɡuːs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

animal species

A mongoose is a small, carnivorous mammal belonging to the family Herpestidae. They are primarily found in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Known for their agility and boldness, mongooses are famous for their ability to combat venomous snakes. Their diet consists of insects, small mammals, and sometimes fruits. Mongooses often live in groups and exhibit complex social structures, which help them to fend off predators.

Synonyms

herpestid.

Examples of usage

  • The mongoose swiftly dodged the snake's attack.
  • Mongooses can often be seen in the grasslands.
  • A group of mongooses worked together to find food.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Natural History

  • Mongooses are known for their unique resistance to snake venom, allowing them to hunt and consume some of the most poisonous snakes.
  • They belong to the family Herpestidae and consist of around 34 species, ranging from the common meerkat to the smaller dwarf mongoose.

Cultural Representations

  • Mongooses appear in notable works of literature and film, most famously as Rikki-Tikki-Tavi in Rudyard Kipling's 'The Jungle Book.'
  • In many cultures, mongooses are associated with protection and bravery, often symbolizing a warrior spirit.

Ecology

  • These creatures play a significant role in their ecosystems by controlling snake populations and various pests.
  • Some species are known to live in social groups, which can help them effectively protect one another from predators.

Behavioral Traits

  • They display impressive intelligence and problem-solving skills, often using teamwork to fend off threats.
  • Mongooses have a unique way of communicating, utilizing a variety of vocalizations, body language, and scent marking.

Origin of 'mongoose'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mongoose' comes from the Marathi word 'mungus,' which refers to this nimble creature.
  • In other languages, such as French and Portuguese, the term is derived from 'mangouste,' highlighting its widespread recognition.

The word 'mongoose' originates from the Marathi word 'mungūs', which is a term used for these small carnivores native to the Indian subcontinent. The term was adopted into English in the 17th century, as European traders and naturalists encountered the animal during their travels in India. The usage of 'mongoose' has since expanded to refer to various species within the Herpestidae family. These animals are known for their unique behavior and ecological roles, leading to their prominence in folklore and literature, especially due to their fearlessness when confronting snakes. The adaptability of mongooses to different environments has contributed to their distribution in various parts of the world, showcasing their evolutionary success.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,169 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.