Vulpes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vulpes

[ˈvʌlpiz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal

A genus of small omnivorous mammals including both wild and domesticated forms of foxes.

Synonyms

canine, fox, wild dog.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vulpes

Scientific and formal discussions about the genus of foxes; often used in biology and taxonomy.

  • The Vulpes genus includes several species of foxes, such as the red fox (Vulpes vulpes)
fox

Common language referring to the animal known for its cunning and often depicted in folklore and everyday conversation.

  • I saw a fox in the woods yesterday
canine

General term for dog-like animals; often used in veterinary science, biology, and pet contexts.

  • The clinic specializes in the care of canines, both domestic and wild
wild dog

Refers to undomesticated dogs, including various species like the African wild dog; often used in zoology and wildlife documentaries.

  • The African wild dog is known for its incredible hunting skills and pack behavior

Examples of usage

  • The vulpes are known for their cunning and adaptability.
  • The vulpes species has a wide distribution across the world.
Context #2 | Noun

astronomy

A crater on the planet Mars, named after the Latin word for fox.

Synonyms

Mars crater, Martian feature.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vulpes

This is a Latin term for 'fox' and is typically used in scientific or academic contexts, especially when referring to the genus of foxes.

  • The Vulpes vulpes, or red fox, is one of the most widespread and adaptable mammals in the world
Mars crater

This term is suitable for discussions about specific geological features on the Martian surface, especially when referring to impact craters.

  • Scientists have discovered a new Mars crater, which may provide clues about the planet's geological history
Martian feature

This is a general term used to describe any notable geological formation or characteristic on the surface of Mars, including craters, mountains, and valleys.

  • The rover captured stunning images of various Martian features, revealing new insights about the planet's terrain

Examples of usage

  • The Vulpes crater is located in the southern hemisphere of Mars.
  • The Vulpes crater has a diameter of approximately 42 kilometers.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • The genus 'Vulpes' includes several species of foxes, such as the red fox and the Arctic fox, each adapted to their specific environments.
  • Most foxes in this genus have a keen sense of hearing, allowing them to locate prey even under snow.
  • Foxes are incredibly adaptable animals, able to thrive in various habitats, from urban areas to wild tundras.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, foxes are featured in folklore as clever tricksters, seen in tales from Native American to European traditions.
  • The character of the fox appears in literature, such as in 'The Little Prince,' where it offers wisdom about friendship and relationships.

Conservation

  • Several species within the 'Vulpes' genus are protected due to habitat loss and hunting pressures.
  • Conservation efforts focus on preserving natural habitats to ensure fox populations can thrive alongside humans.

Zoology

  • Foxes in the 'Vulpes' genus display unique social behaviors, often living in family groups and using vocalizations to communicate.
  • Unlike many canids, foxes are known to be solitary hunters, showcasing a mix of industriousness and independence.

Origin of 'vulpes'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'vulpes' comes from Latin, meaning 'fox,' reflecting the animal's cunning nature.
  • In ancient Roman culture, the fox was often seen as a symbol of trickery and cunning, aligning with its behavior in the wild.

The word 'vulpes' originates from Latin, where it means 'fox'. Foxes have long been associated with cunning and intelligence in various cultures. The genus Vulpes includes a wide variety of fox species, ranging from the Arctic fox to the fennec fox. The Vulpes crater on Mars was named after the Latin word for fox due to its distinctive shape resembling a fox's head. The term 'vulpes' continues to be used in both scientific and literary contexts to refer to foxes and related species.