Pygmy: meaning, definitions and examples

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pygmy

 

[ หˆpษชษกmi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

ethnic group

The term 'pygmy' refers to various ethnic groups known for their short stature, typically not exceeding 5 feet in height. These groups are primarily found in Africa, particularly in the Congo Basin, and have distinct cultural practices, languages, and social structures. They are often hunter-gatherers and have traditionally lived in harmony with the forest environment. The use of the term can be controversial due to its colonial connotations and perceived derogatory implications.

Synonyms

dwarf, little person, miniature

Examples of usage

  • The Pygmy tribes have a rich tradition of music and dance.
  • Research on Pygmy populations helps us understand human genetic diversity.
  • Pygmy cultures are often overlooked by mainstream anthropological studies.
Context #2 | Noun

species term

In a biological context, 'pygmy' is used to describe various small-sized species of animals, particularly in reference to specific subspecies that have adapted to different environments. This term highlights the fascinating adaptations of these species to their habitats, often resulting in significant size reduction compared to their larger relatives.

Synonyms

miniature, petite, small

Examples of usage

  • The pygmy marmoset is the smallest monkey species in the world.
  • Pygmy hippos are smaller than their common relatives and are found in West Africa.
  • Scientists are studying pygmy chameleons for insights into species adaptation.

Translations

Translations of the word "pygmy" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น pigmeu

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคชเคฟเค—เฅเคฎเฅ€

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Pygmรคe

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ pigmey

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฟั–ะณะผะตะน

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ pigmej

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒ”ใ‚ฐใƒŸใƒผ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท pygmรฉe

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ pigmeo

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท pigme

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ํ”ผ๊ทธ๋ฏธ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู‚ุฒู…

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ pigmรฉn

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ pigmรฉn

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ็Ÿฎไบบ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ pigmej

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ pigmey

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะฟะธะณะผะตะน

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒžแƒ˜แƒ’แƒ›แƒ”แƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ pigme

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ pigmeo

Word origin

The term 'pygmy' originates from the Greek word 'pygmaios', meaning 'something that is a foot high'. Historically, it referred to a small, dwarf-like individual and was used in ancient Greek literature to describe a mythical race of small people. Over time, the word became associated with certain ethnic groups in Central Africa, particularly those in the rainforests who are characterized by their short stature. The usage of the term has shifted, often carrying pejorative connotations due to its roots in colonialism, leading to debates within anthropological circles about its acceptability and implications in contemporary discourse. Currently, many prefer to use specific names for the ethnic groups, such as the Mbuti or Baka, to acknowledge their unique identities and cultural heritages.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,972, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.