Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Talpidae: A biological family of small insectivorous mammals commonly known as moles, characterized by their cylindrical bodies, velvety fur, reduced eyes, and powerful forelimbs adapted for digging.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The European mole belongs to the family Talpidae.
  • Scientists study the evolutionary history of the family Talpidae.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic classification, "Talpidae" is always capitalized and typically italicized in scientific writing.
  • The phylogenetic analysis focused on the subfamily Talpinae within the Talpidae.

Variants and Related Words

• Talpid (adjective): Of or relating to the family Talpidae.
  • The talpid morphology is highly specialized for a fossorial lifestyle.
• Mole (noun): The common name for most members of the family Talpidae.
  • A mole dug tunnels in the lawn.

Synonyms

• Moles (common name)

Notes

• "Family Talpidae" is a scientific taxonomic term. In everyday language, the common name "moles" is used. The term refers specifically to the biological family, which includes not only true moles but also related species like shrew moles and desmans.

Noun

1. moles