Definition

Describing young animals that are able to move and take care of themselves shortly after they are born or hatched.

Example

Precocial birds, like ducks, can walk and swim soon after hatching.

Conversation

Did you know that some bird species are precocial?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they can move around and take care of themselves right after hatching.

That's pretty amazing! I didn't know birds could be so independent.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Precocial → It is formed from "prae-" (meaning before) and "coquere" (meaning to cook). The word describes animals that are hatched or born in an advanced state and are able to feed themselves almost immediately, hence they are 'cooked' or ready before the usual time.

Memory Tip

Think of animals that are 'ready' ('prae-') to 'feed themselves' ('coquere') right after birth, which is what precocial means.

Visually Confused Words