ibices
Definition
Noun (plural form of ibex): - Mountain goat: "ibices" refers to multiple individuals of a type of wild goat with long, backward-curving horns, typically found in high mountain regions such as the Alps, the Himalayas, and parts of Africa.
Usage Examples
- (A group of wild mountain goats moving over difficult terrain.)
- (Multiple wild goats feeding in a high-altitude area.)
Advanced Usage
- "ibices" is the less common plural form; the more standard plural is "ibexes." Both are accepted, but "ibexes" is preferred in modern usage.
- The herd of ibices was a rare sight for the wildlife photographers. (A group of these animals, using the less common plural.)
Variants and Related Words
Ibex (n, singular): the singular form meaning one such goat.
- An ibex stood motionless on the mountain peak. (A single wild goat.)
Ibexes (n, plural): the more common plural form.
- Ibexes are known for their agility in rocky environments. (Multiple ibex individuals.)
Synonyms
- Wild goat: a general term for any goat living in the wild, including ibices.
- Capra ibex: the scientific name for the Alpine ibex, one specific species.
Related Idioms
- There are no common idioms specifically involving "ibices" or "ibex," but the animal is sometimes used metaphorically in mountaineering contexts:
- "Sure-footed as an ibex": describing someone who is extremely stable and agile on difficult terrain.
- The climber moved across the narrow ledge sure-footed as an ibex. (Very stable and confident on steep ground.)