Definition

Proper noun: * Family Equidae: In biological taxonomy, this is the scientific name for the family of odd-toed ungulates (mammals with hooves) that includes horses, donkeys, zebras, and their extinct relatives. Members of this family are characterized by long heads, long legs adapted for running, and a single functional toe on each foot, encased in a hoof.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The evolution of the family Equidae is well-documented in the fossil record.
  • All modern equines belong to the family Equidae.
  • Scientists study the family Equidae to understand the development of grazing mammals.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific and zoological contexts, family Equidae is always used as a formal taxonomic unit, typically italicized in writing: .
• It is often discussed in relation to its order, Perissodactyla (odd-toed ungulates), and its sole surviving genus, .

Variants and Related Words

• Equid (n): A common name for any member of the family Equidae.
  • Zebras, donkeys, and horses are all equids.
• Equine (adj): Relating to or resembling a horse or other member of the family Equidae.
  • She has a strong interest in equine anatomy.
• Genus Equus (n): The only surviving genus within the family Equidae, containing horses, zebras, and asses.

Synonyms

• Equids: A direct synonym referring to the members of the family.
• The horse family: A common, non-scientific term for Family Equidae.

Related Terms (Conceptual)

• Perissodactyla: The larger order to which Equidae belongs.
• Ungulate: A hoofed mammal; the broader category for animals like those in Equidae.
• Taxonomy: The science of classification where the term "family Equidae" is used.

Noun

1. horses; asses; zebras; extinct animals