hippopotamidae
Proper noun A taxonomic family within the order Artiodactyla. It comprises large, mostly herbivorous, semiaquatic mammals, including the extant hippopotamus and its close relatives. This family is characterized by barrel-shaped bodies, short legs, large mouths, and nearly hairless skin.
The word "Hippopotamidae" is used exclusively in scientific and zoological contexts to classify a specific biological family. It is not used in everyday conversation.
Examples * The common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) and the pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis) are the only two extant species within the family Hippopotamidae. * Fossil evidence suggests that Hippopotamidae was once more diverse and widespread. * The evolutionary history of Hippopotamidae is a key subject of study in mammalian paleontology.
- In phylogenetic taxonomy: The placement of Hippopotamidae within Cetartiodactyla, showing its close evolutionary relationship with whales (Cetacea), is a significant area of research.
- In paleontological description: The term is used to describe fossil genera and species that share key morphological traits with modern hippos, such as .
- hippopotamid (noun/adjective): A member of the family Hippopotamidae; or, relating to this family.
- Several hippopotamid fossils were discovered at the site.
- hippopotamus (noun): The common name for the large, extant species within Hippopotamidae, specifically .
- hippo family (informal, non-scientific)
The word "Hippopotamidae" has only one meaning: it refers specifically to the biological family. It is not used idiomatically or in any other context.