Tusked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tusked
[tʌskt ]
Definition
animal anatomy
The term 'tusked' refers to animals that possess tusks, which are elongated, continuously growing teeth. Generally found in species such as elephants, walruses, and wild boars, tusks are often used for various purposes, including foraging for food, social interactions, and defense against predators. The presence of tusks can vary among genders and age groups within a species, and their size and shape can indicate health and vitality.
Synonyms
ivory-bearing, toothed.
Examples of usage
- The tusked elephant roamed majestically across the savannah.
- Marine scientists study tusked species to understand their feeding habits.
- In winter, tusked walruses gather on ice floes.
- The tusked boar charged through the underbrush.
- Tusked animals often display social behavior during mating rituals.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Animal Behavior
- Many tusked animals use their tusks for various purposes, including digging for food, fighting, and mating displays.
- In some species, such as walruses, tusks help to haul their large bodies out of the water onto ice.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, the tusks of elephants represent strength and wisdom, often featuring prominently in art and folklore.
- Tusk tusks have been used historically in tools and ornaments, indicating their importance to human life and commerce.
Conservation
- The illegal trade of tusks, especially from elephants, has led to significant conservation efforts due to the threats to biodiversity.
- Some wildlife reserves work exclusively to protect tusked species from poaching and habitat loss, highlighting the need for preservation.
Science
- In some tusked animals, like the narwhal, the tusk is actually an elongated tooth that can grow up to 10 feet long.
- The structure of tusks is similar to that of teeth, consisting of a hard enamel outer layer and softer dentin inside, influencing their growth and wear.
Origin of 'tusked'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'tusk' comes from the Middle English 'tusk', which has roots in the Old Norse word 'tuskr', meaning 'tooth'.
- Historically, 'tusk' referred to any large, sharp tooth, especially those of animals like elephants or walruses.
The word 'tusked' originates from the Old French word 'tusque', which traces back to the Latin 'tuscus', meaning 'tooth'. Over time, it evolved in the English language to describe the anatomical feature associated with certain animals, particularly those that possess prominent teeth used for specific functions. The concept of tusked animals has cultural significance in various societies, often representing strength, endurance, and social hierarchy. Additionally, the fascination with tusked creatures has led to their portrayal in art, literature, and folklore for centuries, emphasizing their unique biological characteristics and the roles they play in their ecosystems.