Definition

A type of animal that looked like a zebra and lived in southern Africa, but is no longer alive since the late 1800s.

Example

The quagga was once found in the grasslands of South Africa before it became extinct.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the quagga?

Yeah, I read about it in a book! It’s fascinating how it was similar to zebras.

I find it sad that the quagga went extinct so long ago.

I know, right? It makes you think about how many other species we could lose.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'quagga' originates from the Dutch word 'kwagga', which refers to a type of zebra that was native to South Africa. The term is derived from the sound that the animal made, resembling a 'quack'.

Memory Tip

Think of the Dutch word 'kwagga' that describes a zebra-like animal, and remember that 'quagga' refers to this extinct species.

Visually Confused Words