ichneumon
/ik'nju:mən/
Definition
- Noun:
- A small carnivorous mammal: The ichneumon is a species of mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon), also known as the Egyptian mongoose, native to Africa and southern Europe.
- A parasitic wasp: In entomology, "ichneumon" is also used to refer to various species of parasitic wasps belonging to the family Ichneumonidae, which lay their eggs in or on other insects.
Usage Examples
- Noun (Mammal):
- The ichneumon is known for its ability to hunt snakes.
- We spotted an ichneumon near the riverbank in Egypt.
- Noun (Insect):
- An ichneumon wasp parasitized the caterpillar.
- The garden benefits from ichneumons that control pest populations.
Advanced Usage
- "Ichneumon fly": An older, non-scientific term for the ichneumon wasp, highlighting its fly-like appearance to a layperson.
- The so-called ichneumon fly is actually a type of wasp.
Variants and Related Words
- Ichneumonid (n): A more precise scientific term for a wasp of the family Ichneumonidae.
- The ichneumonid deposited its eggs inside the host.
Synonyms
- For the mammal: Egyptian mongoose.
- For the wasp: Parasitic wasp, ichneumon wasp.
Notes on Different Meanings
The word "ichneumon" has two distinct zoological meanings: 1. A mammalian predator (the mongoose). 2. An insect parasitoid (the wasp). Context is essential to determine which is intended. The historical reference to it devouring crocodile eggs pertains specifically to the mongoose.
Noun
-
northern African mongoose; in ancient times thought to devour crocodile eggs
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