koala bear
Definition
Noun: A small, tree-dwelling marsupial mammal native to Australia. It has a stout, tailless body with grey fur, large furry ears, and a distinctive black nose. It is known for its diet consisting almost exclusively of eucalyptus leaves.
Usage and Examples
The term "koala bear" is a common name, though it is not scientifically a bear. - The children were excited to see the koala bear sleeping in the tree. - Koala bears are not actually bears; they are marsupials. - The sanctuary cares for injured koala bears.
Advanced Usage and Notes
- The term "koala bear" is considered a colloquialism. The scientifically accurate and preferred term is simply "koala".
- The phrase highlights a common historical misconception about the animal's biological family, as it is not related to true bears.
Variants and Related Words
- Koala (n): The standard and preferred term for the animal.
- Native bear (n, archaic): An older, alternative common name.
- Marsupial (n): The biological order to which koalas belong, characterized by carrying young in a pouch.
Synonyms
- Koala (n)
- Phascolarctos cinereus (n): The scientific binomial name.
Related Phrases and Context
- Eucalyptus feeder: Describes its primary dietary habit.
- Arboreal marsupial: Describes its tree-dwelling and pouched nature.
Noun
-
sluggish tailless Australian arboreal marsupial with grey furry ears and coat; feeds on eucalyptus leaves and bark
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