Definition

A period of dormancy or inactivity that some animals enter during the hot summer months to conserve energy and avoid heat.

Example

Some desert animals go into estivation to survive the extreme heat.

Conversation

Have you heard about estivation?

Yeah, it's like hibernation but for the summer, right?

Exactly! Some animals go into estivation to survive the heat.

That sounds fascinating! I didn't know that was a thing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Estivation → It is formed from "aestivus" (meaning summer) and the suffix "-ation" (indicating a process or action). The word "estivation" refers to the process of dormancy or inactivity during the hot summer months, similar to hibernation in winter.

Memory Tip

Think of 'summer' ('aestivus') when remembering that 'estivation' means a period of dormancy or inactivity during the hot months.

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