macaca

Thân thiện

A rhesus macaca sits on a tree branch eating a piece of fruit.

Definition

Noun: 1. A genus of Old World monkeys: Macaca is the scientific genus name for a group of primates commonly known as macaques. These monkeys are native to Asia and North Africa. 2. Informal/Offensive term: Historically and offensively used as a racial slur, particularly in the United States. This usage is extremely derogatory and should be avoided.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Scientific):
  • The Macaca genus includes species like the rhesus macaque and the Japanese macaque.
  • Researchers studied the social behavior of several Macaca troops.
• Noun (Offensive - for understanding context only):
  • (Example omitted due to the highly offensive nature of this usage. It is provided here solely to warn learners of its existence and severe inappropriateness.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is primarily used in formal, scientific contexts (e.g., biology, zoology, anthropology). In all other contexts, the common name "macaque" is preferred.
• The offensive usage stems from a specific historical incident and is considered a severe racial epithet.

Variants and Related Words

• Macaque (n): The common English name for monkeys of the genus .
  • The Barbary macaque is the only macaque species found in Africa.
• Cercopithecidae (n): The biological family that includes macaques, baboons, and guenons.

Synonyms

• Macaque (common name)
• Old World monkey (broader category)

Important Note on Usage

CRITICAL: The word "macaca" has two distinct and separate meanings. Its primary, acceptable use is strictly scientific. Its secondary use is a deeply offensive racial slur. Language learners must understand that using this word outside of a technical, scientific discussion is unacceptable and will cause serious offense. Always use the common name "macaque" in general conversation.

Học thuật

Noun

1. macaques; rhesus monkeys

Từ đồng nghĩa

• Macaca
• genus Macaca