Definition

Noun 1. A large, shaggy-haired, toothless anteater with a long tongue and powerful claws; native to South America: This is the common name for the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla). The term specifically refers to the species characterized by its distinctive coarse, long fur, lack of teeth, extremely elongated snout, and strong front claws used for breaking into ant and termite mounds.

Usage Examples

• The myrmecophaga jubata uses its powerful claws to tear open termite nests.
• Researchers are studying the habitat of the myrmecophaga jubata in the Brazilian savanna.
• A distinguishing feature of the myrmecophaga jubata is its exceptionally long, sticky tongue.

Advanced Usage

• The term "myrmecophaga jubata" is primarily used in formal zoological or scientific contexts. In general English, the species is almost exclusively referred to as the "giant anteater."
• The name is derived from Latin and Greek roots: (ant), (eating), and (maned or crested), describing its ant-eating diet and shaggy appearance.

Variants and Related Words

• Giant anteater: The common English name for .
• Myrmecophaga tridactyla: The modern, accepted scientific binomial name for the same species. ( is a synonym).
• Anteater: The general term for mammals in the suborder Vermilingua, which includes the giant anteater, tamanduas, and silky anteaters.
• Myrmecophagous (adj): Describing an animal that feeds on ants and termites.

Synonyms

• Giant anteater
• Ant bear (a less common colloquial name)

Related Idioms or Phrases

• None directly associated: There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs using this specific scientific term. General idioms about "ants" (e.g., "ants in your pants") are not directly related to the animal itself.

Noun

1. large shaggy-haired toothless anteater with long tongue and powerful claws; of South America