Whiskered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Zoology

• Whiskers, or vibrissae, are specialized sensory hairs that help animals navigate their environment, especially in the dark.
• Different species have differing lengths and sensitivity of whiskers; for example, cats' whiskers can be as long as their body width.
• Whiskers can detect changes in air currents, alerting animals to nearby objects or potential threats.

Culture

• Cats are often depicted with prominent whiskers in cartoons and animations, reinforcing their curious and stealthy nature.
• The image of the whiskered face is common in popular culture, often symbolizing playfulness and curiosity in young children’s books.

Psychology

• Animal whiskers have been a subject of study to better understand how animals perceive their surroundings, which can shed light on human sensory processes.
• Observing the behavior of whiskered animals can influence people's emotions and foster empathy towards them.

Art

• Whiskers have been a popular subject in art, representing grace and agility in various animal depictions.
• In photography, close-up shots of whiskered animals often capture a sense of intimacy and connection with nature.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Old English 'wisc', which refers to something that is quick or lively.
• It is often associated with the word 'whisk,' linking to the quick movement of the whiskers.
• In literature, 'whiskered' has historically been used to describe various animals, emphasizing their distinctive facial features.

The term 'whiskered' originates from the word 'whisker,' which has its roots in the Old English term 'hwisc,' meaning a twist or a sudden movement. The word evolved to describe the long, thin hairs found on the face of certain animals. Over time, 'whiskered' became an adjective to denote animals, particularly those with prominent whiskers, such as cats and some species of rodents. The use of whiskers in the animal kingdom is essential for sensory perception, allowing animals to sense their environment and navigate effectively. This sensory capability has cemented the adjective in descriptions of furry companions and wildlife.

This word's position of #33,101 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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• 33098 chugging
• 33099 disrespectfully
• 33100 ratiocination
• 33101 whiskered
• 33102 vesper
• 33103 bleakly
• 33104 butte
• ...