Definition

Noun: 1. A specific type of arboreal mammal: A "three-toed sloth" is a mammal belonging to the genus Bradypus. It is characterized by having three long, curved claws on each of its four limbs. This anatomical feature distinguishes it from the two-toed sloth (genus Choloepus). Three-toed sloths are known for their extremely slow movement, spending most of their lives hanging upside down in the trees of Central and South American rainforests.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The three-toed sloth moves so slowly that algae often grow on its fur.
  • We were lucky to spot a three-toed sloth sleeping high in the canopy.
  • Unlike its two-toed cousin, the three-toed sloth has a distinctive facial marking that makes it look like it's smiling.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific Classification: The term is used precisely in zoology and biology to categorize a specific genus of sloths. For example: "The study focused on the metabolic rate of the three-toed sloth ()."

Variants and Related Words

• Sloth (n): The general term for these slow-moving, tree-dwelling mammals. "Three-toed sloth" is a hyponym (more specific type) of "sloth."
• Bradypus (n): The scientific genus name for the three-toed sloth.
• Ai (n): A common local name for the three-toed sloth in parts of South America, derived from its characteristic high-pitched call.

Synonyms

• Bradypus sloth: A more formal synonym that uses the genus name.
• (The) Ai: A regional synonym used in some countries.

Related Phrases

• "As slow as a three-toed sloth": An idiomatic comparison used to describe something or someone that moves or acts with extreme slowness.
  • The internet connection here is as slow as a three-toed sloth.

Noun

1. a sloth that has three long claws on each forefoot and each hindfoot