Definition

Describing animals that are adapted for digging or burrowing into the ground.

Example

Moles are fossorial creatures that spend most of their lives underground.

Conversation

Did you know that moles have fossorial feet for digging?

Really? That's pretty interesting!

Yeah, it helps them move quickly underground.

I can see how that would be useful for finding food.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fossorial → It is formed from "fossor" (from Latin, meaning digger) and the suffix "-ial" (meaning relating to). The word "fossorial" refers to animals that are adapted for digging or burrowing.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'digger' ('fossor') and remember that 'fossorial' describes animals that are related to digging.

Visually Confused Words