A pachyderm is a thick-skinned, hoofed mammal. This term, now largely considered outdated in scientific circles, was traditionally used to classify animals like elephants, rhinoceroses, and hippopotamuses. These animals share characteristics like robust builds, relatively thick skin, and typically possess large, strong limbs. While useful in highlighting broad similarities, modern taxonomy has replaced it with more specific classifications based on evolutionary relationships and genetic data.
Pachyderm meaning with examples
- The zookeeper led a group of children towards the enclosure, pointing out the massive pachyderm known for its wrinkled skin. The children marveled at the elephant's sheer size, unaware of the complex social structures within the pachyderm herd and their intelligence.
- Ancient civilizations often depicted pachyderm-like creatures in art and religious symbolism, demonstrating their awareness of these majestic animals. These illustrations provided us with some insight into the reverence these beings brought to the ancient world and their powerful presence.
- Despite the term 'pachyderm' being outdated, it's still used in some contexts, like describing the heavy, lumbering gait of the rhinoceros as it grazed. This comparison brings a powerful image of sheer size.
- Early naturalists, classifying creatures based on observable traits, used 'pachyderm' as a convenient grouping before the development of DNA-based taxonomy. The term has since been superseded.
- In a fictional story, a brave adventurer sought out the lost temple of the pachyderms, hoping to discover hidden treasures. This phrase has brought an image of giant ancient beasts.
Pachyderm Synonyms
elephant hippopotamus rhinoceros thick-skinned mammalPachyderm Antonyms
thin-skinned mammalPachyderm Crossword Answers
5 Letters
HIPPO
8 Letters
ELEPHANT
10 Letters
RHINOCEROS
12 Letters
HIPPOPOTAMUS