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Pachyderm: meaning, definitions and examples

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pachyderm

 

[ˈpækɪˌdɜːrm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

large animal

A pachyderm is a large mammal with thick skin, such as an elephant, rhinoceros, or hippopotamus. These animals are known for their size and strength, as well as their herbivorous diet.

Synonyms

large mammal, thick-skinned animal.

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Word Description / Examples
pachyderm

Typically used in scientific or formal contexts to refer to large, thick-skinned animals, especially elephants, rhinos, and hippos.

  • The zoo's newest pachyderm is a young elephant named Tumbo.
  • Conservation efforts for pachyderms are crucial due to their declining populations.
large mammal

This is a broad, general term used in both everyday language and scientific contexts to describe animals of significant size, such as elephants, whales, and bears.

  • The African savannah is home to many large mammals, including lions and giraffes.
  • Studying large mammals like the grey whale provides insight into marine ecosystems.
thick-skinned animal

Commonly used descriptively to emphasize the physical characteristic of an animal with notably thick skin, such as elephants or rhinos. It may also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is emotionally tough.

  • The rhinoceros is a thick-skinned animal that can weigh up to two tons.
  • She had developed the thick skin necessary to handle criticism in her line of work.

Examples of usage

  • The pachyderm trumpeted loudly in the jungle.
  • Tourists were amazed by the sight of the massive pachyderm at the zoo.
  • The zookeeper fed the pachyderm a diet of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'pachyderm' comes from the Greek terms 'pachys' meaning thick and 'derma' meaning skin.
  • Originally used to describe a group of animals, it now commonly refers to elephants, rhinos, and hippos.

Zoology

  • Pachyderms are not a formal zoological category but are often grouped due to their similar features.
  • Elephants are the largest land mammals and can weigh up to 12,000 pounds (5,443 kg).
  • Hippopotamuses are semi-aquatic and can hold their breath underwater for several minutes.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, elephants symbolize wisdom, strength, and good luck.
  • Pachyderms have been used in various ancient and modern militaries for transporting goods and soldiers.
  • The image of an elephant is often seen in popular culture, from children’s cartoons to architectural sculptures.

Conservation

  • Many pachyderm species, especially elephants, are endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.
  • Conservation efforts include creating wildlife reserves and anti-poaching laws to protect these magnificent animals.
  • The illegal ivory trade poses a significant threat to elephant populations globally.

Literature and Media

  • Pachyderms are often featured in children’s literature, symbolizing strength and gentleness, like in 'Babar the Elephant'.
  • The famous tale of 'Dumbo' depicts an elephant who learns to fly, highlighting themes of acceptance and bravery.

Translations

Translations of the word "pachyderm" in other languages:

🇵🇹 paquiderme

🇮🇳 मोटी चमड़ी वाला जानवर

🇩🇪 Dickhäuter

🇮🇩 paquiderm

🇺🇦 товстошкірий

🇵🇱 pachyderm

🇯🇵 厚皮動物 (こうひどうぶつ)

🇫🇷 pachyderme

🇪🇸 paquidermo

🇹🇷 pachyderm

🇰🇷 후피동물

🇸🇦 حيوان سميك الجلد

🇨🇿 tlustokožec

🇸🇰 pachyderm

🇨🇳 厚皮动物 (hòu pí dòng wù)

🇸🇮 pachyderm

🇮🇸 þykkskinn

🇰🇿 қалың терілі жануар

🇬🇪 სქელკანიანი ცხოველი

🇦🇿 qalın dərili heyvan

🇲🇽 paquidermo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,065, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.