Definition

A porcupine is a large rodent known for its sharp quills that can be raised when threatened. These animals are mostly herbivorous and can be found in various habitats.

Example

The porcupine climbed the tree to escape from the hungry predator.

Conversation

Did you see that porcupine in the zoo yesterday?

Yeah, it was so cute but looked a bit prickly!

I didn't know they could be so big, though.

Right? I always thought a porcupine would be much smaller.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Porcupine comes from the Middle French 'porc espin' (meaning spiny pig), where 'porc' means pig and 'espin' means thorn or spine. The word describes an animal that resembles a pig and is covered in spines.

Memory Tip

Imagine a pig covered in spines — that's what a porcupine is, combining the idea of a 'pig' ('porc') and 'spines' ('espin').

Visually Confused Words