Definition

Noun: * Ranidae: A family of amphibians with a nearly worldwide distribution; the true frogs. This is the biological family name for the most common and widespread group of frogs, characterized by their smooth, moist skin, long hind legs adapted for jumping and swimming, and typically an aquatic tadpole stage.

Usage

• The word Ranidae is a scientific, taxonomic term used primarily in biology, zoology, and herpetology. It is always capitalized as it is a proper noun (a family name).
• It is used to classify and discuss species within this specific family, distinguishing them from other frog families like tree frogs (Hylidae) or toads (Bufonidae).

Examples

• The common bullfrog () is a well-known member of the family Ranidae.
• Herpetologists study the diverse morphology found within Ranidae.
• While many frogs belong to Ranidae, the poison dart frogs belong to a different family entirely.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in its adjectival form, ranid, to describe characteristics pertaining to this family.
  • Example: The ranid frogs found in this pond exhibit typical aquatic breeding behavior.

Variants and Related Words

• ranid (adjective/noun): Of or relating to the family Ranidae; a member of this family.
  • Example (adj): The ranid skin is typically smooth and permeable.
  • Example (noun): Several ranids were observed near the wetland.

Different Meanings / Contexts

• Ranidae has only one specific meaning: it refers exclusively to the biological family of true frogs. It does not have common, non-scientific definitions.

Synonyms

• True frogs: This is the common name for the family Ranidae.
• (There are no direct single-word synonyms, as it is a precise taxonomic classification.)

Idioms

• (Not applicable. Ranidae is a scientific term and is not used in idiomatic expressions.)

Phrasal Verbs

• (Not applicable. Ranidae is a noun and does not form phrasal verbs.)

Noun

1. a family nearly cosmopolitan in distribution: true frogs