Equidae
/'ikwi:di:/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - A family of mammals: "Equidae" is the scientific family name for a group of hoofed mammals that includes horses, donkeys (asses), zebras, and their extinct relatives. Members of this family are characterized by having a single functional toe on each foot, encased in a hoof.
Usage
- "Equidae" is used in formal, scientific, or zoological contexts to classify and discuss this specific biological family.
- It is typically treated as a plural noun when referring to the animals collectively (e.g., "Equidae are..."), though it can be used as a singular noun when referring to the taxonomic group itself (e.g., "The family Equidae includes...").
Examples
- .*
Advanced Usage
- In taxonomic hierarchy: "Equidae" is the family level within the order Perissodactyla (odd-toed ungulates). It sits above the genus level (e.g., ) and below the suborder level.
- Collective reference: The term can be used to discuss the group's shared characteristics, such as "The digestive system of Equidae is adapted for a diet of grasses."
Variants and Related Words
- Equine (adj): Pertaining to horses or other members of the family Equidae.
- The farm specialized in equine care.
- Equus (n): The sole surviving genus within the family Equidae, encompassing horses, zebras, and asses.
- Perissodactyla (n): The larger order of odd-toed ungulates to which Equidae belongs, also including tapirs and rhinoceroses.
Synonyms
- Horse family: A common, non-scientific synonym.
- Equids: A term often used interchangeably with "Equidae" to refer to the animals in this family.
Notes on Meaning
The word "Equidae" has a single, precise meaning in scientific classification. It does not have idiomatic or phrasal verb uses, as it is a specialized taxonomic term.
Noun
- horses; asses; zebras; extinct animals