Ungulate - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{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.

Interesting Facts

Biology

These animals typically have adaptations for grazing, with strong teeth designed for grinding grass.
Oxygen consumption in ungulates is efficient, adapted for their large sizes and long-distance running ability.
They often have complex digestive systems with multiple stomachs to help process tough plant materials.

Cultural Significance

Many ungulates have played crucial roles in human cultures, serving as domesticated animals for farming and transportation.
In various mythologies, hoofed animals are often associated with strength and fertility, such as the sacred bull in many ancient cultures.
Ungulates are frequently featured in folklore and children’s stories, symbolizing nature and the wild.

Conservation

Species like the African elephant and the white rhinoceros, belonging to the ungulate group, face significant threats from habitat loss and poaching.
Conservation efforts for ungulates often involve habitat preservation and anti-poaching measures to ensure their survival.
Studies on ungulates help us understand the health of ecosystems, as many species are key indicators of environmental stability.

Habitat & Distribution

Ungulates are found all over the world, inhabiting diverse environments from savannas and grasslands to forests and mountains.
Some species, like the caribou, migrate over long distances annually in search of food and suitable breeding grounds.
They often form herds for protection against predators and to find food more efficiently.

Origin of 'ungulate'

Main points about word origin

The word 'ungulate' comes from the Latin 'ungula,' meaning hoof.
In earlier classifications, ungulates were divided into two main groups: even-toed and odd-toed species.
The term has been in use since the early 19th century to describe hoofed mammals.

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.

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34453 torched
34454 enigmatically
34455 tainting
34456 ungulate
34457 polyphenol
34458 traduced
34459 undependable
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Ungulate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations