Cyclopes

/'saiklɔps/

Thân thiện

Definition

Proper noun 1. A genus of mammals: In zoological taxonomy, Cyclopes is the genus name for a specific type of small, arboreal anteater, commonly known as the silky anteater. It is the only genus in the family Cyclopedidae. 2. Mythological beings (plural: Cyclopes): In Greek mythology, the Cyclopes were a race of one-eyed giants. The singular form is "Cyclops."

Usage Examples

• Proper noun (Zoology):
  • The genus Cyclopes contains the smallest living anteater species.
  • Scientists study Cyclopes didactylus to understand its unique adaptations.
• Proper noun (Mythology):
  • In Homer's Odyssey, Odysseus encounters the Cyclops Polyphemus.
  • The Cyclopes were often depicted as skilled blacksmiths who forged Zeus's thunderbolts.

Advanced Usage

• Capitalization: As a proper noun, it is always capitalized ().
• Context is key: The meaning is entirely dependent on context. In a scientific paper, it refers to the anteater genus. In literature or history, it refers to the mythological giants.

Variants and Related Words

• Cyclops (n.): The singular form for the mythological being.
  • Odysseus blinded the Cyclops.
• Cyclopean (adj.): 1. Relating to the Cyclopes. 2. Denoting a type of ancient masonry made with massive, irregular stones.
  • The ruins featured cyclopean walls.
• Cyclopedidae (n.): The biological family name for the silky anteater, of which the genus is the sole member.

Synonyms

• For the mythological beings: One-eyed giants, monsters (in context).
• For the genus: Silky anteater (common name), (scientific species name).

Notes on Different Meanings

1. Zoological Meaning: This is a precise, scientific term used in biology and zoology. It refers specifically to a taxonomic classification.
2. Mythological Meaning: This is a term from classical mythology and literature. It represents a broader cultural concept of a primordial, often monstrous, being.

Học thuật

Noun

1. only the silky anteater

Từ đồng nghĩa

• Cyclopes
• genus Cyclopes