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Tusk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tusk

[tʌsk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal anatomy

A long, pointed tooth, usually one of a pair that stick out of the mouth of an animal such as an elephant

Examples of usage

  • Elephants use their tusks for digging, lifting objects, and defense.
  • Tusks are made of ivory, which is a valuable material.
  • The tusks of a walrus can grow up to three feet long.
Context #2 | Noun

historical artifact

A long, pointed tooth, usually from a mammoth or other large prehistoric animal, often used in the past as a tool or decoration

Examples of usage

  • The discovery of a tusk from a woolly mammoth provided valuable information about the past.
  • Some ancient societies used tusks as symbols of power and status.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Animals

  • Tusks are most famously associated with elephants, who use them for digging and uprooting trees.
  • Walruses have tusks that can reach lengths of over 3 feet, which are used for asserting dominance and aiding in swimming.
  • Wild boars have elongated tusks that grow continuously throughout their lives, often used for defense and foraging.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, elephant tusks are viewed as symbols of strength and wisdom, revered in various folklore.
  • Certain Indigenous communities use the tusks of animals for crafting tools and art, emphasizing sustainability.
  • The marketing and design of products often feature elements resembling tusks to convey elegance and ferocity.

Conservation

  • Many species with tusks are endangered due to poaching, spurring global efforts to protect these animals and their habitats.
  • Organizations work to raise awareness about the consequences of the illegal ivory trade, which endangers entire species.
  • Conservation efforts often include educating communities about the importance of tusked animals in maintaining ecosystem balance.

Origin of 'tusk'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tusk' comes from the Old French 'tusque', which means 'tooth', showing its connection to teeth.
  • Related words in Latin like 'dentes' also convey the meaning of teeth, reflecting the tusk's sharp form.
  • Other languages, like Spanish ('colmillo'), share links between incubation and long pointed teeth.

The word 'tusk' originated from the Old Norse word 'tǫsk', which means 'tooth'. Tusks have been important in various cultures throughout history, often symbolizing strength, power, and wisdom. They have been used for practical purposes such as tools and weapons, as well as for ornamental and ceremonial purposes. The trade of ivory tusks has unfortunately led to the endangerment of certain animal species, such as elephants and walruses.

See also: tusker.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,476, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.