Toad Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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toad
[təʊd ]
Definition
amphibian
A toad is a small, tailless amphibian with dry, warty skin. Toads are similar to frogs but are typically more terrestrial and have a rougher skin texture. They are known for their distinctive croaking sound.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| toad |
Used often when referring to a specific type of amphibian that is generally warty and has drier, rougher skin compared to frogs. It's also sometimes used metaphorically to describe a person who is considered unpleasant or unattractive.
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| frog |
Commonly used word when referring to an amphibian that is usually smooth-skinned, moist, and tends to be found near water. It's often associated with positive or neutral connotations.
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| amphibian |
Used in scientific or educational contexts to refer to a class of creatures that live both in water and on land, which includes frogs, toads, newts, and salamanders.
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| anuran |
A technical term used in scientific or academic discussions to refer specifically to the order of amphibians that includes frogs and toads. This term is less common in everyday language.
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Examples of usage
- Toads are often found in damp, wooded areas.
- The toad hopped slowly across the garden.
- She could hear the toad's croak echoing in the night.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- Toads can live for several years, with some species reaching up to 40 years in captivity.
- They have unique adaptations, such as the ability to secrete toxins from their skin for protection against predators.
- Unlike frogs, toads are more terrestrial and are usually found further away from water sources when not breeding.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, toads are seen as symbols of transformation and fertility, likely due to their life cycle from tadpole to adult.
- Folklore often depicts toads as bringers of luck or as magical creatures, leading to their presence in stories across the world.
- The phrase 'toad in the hole' refers to a traditional British dish, highlighting the creature's influence on culinary culture.
Ecology
- Toads play a vital role in ecosystems as they help control insect populations, eating large quantities of pests.
- Their presence can indicate healthy wetlands and multifunctional landscapes, serving as bioindicators of environmental conditions.
- Some populations are declining due to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change, raising concerns for biodiversity.
Literature
- Toads are often featured in children's literature, such as 'The Wind in the Willows,' where a character named Toad is portrayed with personality and charm.
- Classical fables sometimes utilized toads to convey moral lessons, often representing traits of greed or stubbornness.
- In poetry, toads have served as symbols of nature's imperfections, linking humanity with the wild world around us.
Origin of 'toad'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'toad' comes from the Old English 'tade', which means the same thing, showing its long history in the language.
- In some cultures, the term 'toad' is used to refer to various amphibians, but it's specifically about those with dry, bumpy skin.
- Historically, toads have been associated with witchcraft and magic, often featured in fairy tales as transformed princes.
The word 'toad' has Old English origins, coming from the Proto-Germanic word 'tagdō'. Toads have been referenced in folklore and fairy tales for centuries, often depicted as magical or sinister creatures. In some cultures, toads are associated with transformation and healing, while in others they are seen as symbols of bad luck.