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Ungulate: meaning, definitions and examples

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ungulate

 

[ ˈʌŋɡjʊlɪt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

animal classification

An ungulate is a member of a diverse group of large mammals that includes animals with hooves. This group encompasses both even-toed ungulates, like deer and pigs, and odd-toed ungulates, such as horses and rhinoceroses. Ungulates are characterized by their hoofed feet, which provide them with an efficient means of locomotion across a variety of terrains. Many ungulates are herbivorous and have specialized digestive systems to process plant material. They exhibit a wide range of sizes, social structures, and behaviors.

Synonyms

herbivore, hoofed mammal, quadruped

Examples of usage

  • Horses are one of the most well-known ungulates.
  • Many ungulates migrate seasonally in search of food.
  • The conservation of ungulate species is vital for ecosystem health.

Translations

Translations of the word "ungulate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ungulado

🇮🇳 गोरस

🇩🇪 Ungeziefer

🇮🇩 hewan berkuku

🇺🇦 парнокопитне

🇵🇱 ssak kopytny

🇯🇵 偶蹄類

🇫🇷 ongulé

🇪🇸 ungulado

🇹🇷 toynaklı hayvan

🇰🇷 발굽 동물

🇸🇦 حيوان ذوات الحوافر

🇨🇿 kopytník

🇸🇰 kopytníky

🇨🇳 偶蹄动物

🇸🇮 kopitniki

🇮🇸 klaufdýr

🇰🇿 тұяқты жануар

🇬🇪 ფაროსანები

🇦🇿 dörd ayaqlı heyvan

🇲🇽 ungulado

Etymology

The term 'ungulate' derives from the Latin word 'ungula,' meaning 'a claw or hoof.' This root emphasizes the defining characteristic of these animals, which is their hoofed feet. The classification of ungulates has evolved over time, as scientists have gained a better understanding of animal relationships through genetic studies. Historically, ungulates were classified into two distinct groups: Artiodactyla (even-toed) and Perissodactyla (odd-toed). However, modern classifications recognize the complex evolutionary history of these animals. The study of ungulates is essential in wildlife management and conservation efforts, as many species face threats from habitat loss and hunting.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,456 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.