Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Muskoxen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐂
Add to dictionary

muskoxen

[ˈmʌskˌɒksən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

animal species

Muskoxen are large, herbivorous mammals that inhabit the Arctic regions of North America and Greenland. They are known for their thick fur, which provides insulation against extreme cold, and their distinctive curved horns. These animals typically live in herds and are well adapted to the tundra environment. Muskoxen primarily feed on grasses, mosses, and other vegetation during the summer months. Their unique physiological traits allow them to survive harsh conditions where few other species can thrive.

Synonyms

Ovibos moschatus, bison, ox.

Examples of usage

  • Muskoxen can be seen grazing on the tundra.
  • A herd of muskoxen wandered through the snowy landscape.
  • Inuit communities have hunted muskoxen for centuries.

Translations

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

Origin of 'muskoxen'

The term 'muskox' derives from the combination of 'musk', which refers to the strong odor that males produce during mating season, and 'ox', which denotes its classification as a bovine. This species was first described scientifically in the 18th century, but it has been part of the Arctic ecosystem for thousands of years. Muskoxen are believed to have evolved from an ancestor that migrated from North America to Asia during a glacial period. Their population dramatically decreased due to overhunting in the 19th century but has since rebounded thanks to conservation efforts. The name reflects both the animal's strong musky odor and its close relation to other bovine species.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,495, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.