proboscidean
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /prəˈbɒsɪˌdiːən/
KK: /prəˈbɑsɪˌdiən/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a group of large mammals that includes elephants and their extinct relatives.
Example
The proboscidean species, such as the woolly mammoth, once roamed the Earth in large numbers.
Conversation
Did you know that elephants are considered proboscidean animals?
Really? I always thought they were just big mammals.
Yeah, they're part of a group called proboscideans which includes extinct species too.
That's fascinating! I love learning about different animal classifications.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tusked
elongated
snouted
Antonyms
short
stubby
compact
noun
Definition
A large mammal that has a trunk, including elephants and their extinct relatives like mastodons.
Example
The proboscidean is known for its long trunk and large ears, which help it to survive in various environments.
Conversation
Did you know that the term proboscidean refers to elephants and their relatives?
Really? I always thought it just meant elephants.
It's interesting how it includes both living and extinct species, like mastodons.
Root Explanation
Proboscidean → It is formed from "proboscis" (from Latin *proboscis*, meaning trunk or snout) and the suffix "-ean" (meaning pertaining to). The word refers to animals that have a trunk or snout, specifically the order of mammals that includes elephants and their relatives.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'proboscis' which means trunk or snout, and remember that 'proboscidean' refers to animals that have a trunk.
Visually Confused Words
eproboscidea