How Do You Spell CATHARTID?

Pronunciation: [kˈaθɑːtˌɪd] (IPA)

The word "cathartid" is spelled with a "th" instead of a "t" because it is derived from the Greek word "kathartēs" which has the same spelling. The "th" is pronounced as a voiceless dental fricative /θ/ as in the word "thin." The rest of the word follows typical English phonetic patterns: "ca-THAR-tid." The term refers to a group of New World vultures, also known as the American vultures, which includes species such as the turkey vulture and the king vulture.

CATHARTID Meaning and Definition

1. Cathartid is an adjective that refers to anything relating to or characteristic of the New World vultures, commonly known as the cathartids or cathartid vultures. These large birds of prey are mainly found in the Americas, comprising the family Cathartidae. The word "cathartid" is derived from the Greek word "katharsis," meaning purification or cleansing. It is often used to describe the biological and ecological aspects related to these scavenging birds.

   In terms of biological characteristics, cathartid vultures possess bald or nearly featherless heads, which aids in keeping their heads clean while feeding on carrion. They have sharp, hooked beaks that are well adapted for tearing flesh, and strong, grasping talons for perching and handling carcasses. Cathartid vultures are known for their distinct soaring flight patterns, using thermal updrafts to glide effortlessly in search of carrion. Another unique trait is their highly acidic stomach acid, allowing them to consume rotting flesh infected with bacteria and viruses without getting sick.

   In ecological terms, cathartids play a crucial role as scavengers in their ecosystems. They feed primarily on carrion, including dead animals and even roadkill, thus preventing the spread of disease and maintaining clean habitats. By recycling nutrients through decomposition, cathartids contribute to the overall balance and health of their ecosystems. Due to their ecological importance and conservation concerns, scientific research and efforts are dedicated to studying and preserving cathartid vultures and their habitats.

Common Misspellings for CATHARTID

• xathartid
• vathartid
• fathartid
• dathartid
• czthartid
• csthartid
• cwthartid
• cqthartid
• carhartid
• cafhartid
• caghartid
• cayhartid
• ca6hartid
• ca5hartid
• catgartid
• catbartid
• catnartid
• catjartid
• catuartid

Etymology of CATHARTID

The word "cathartid" traces its etymology to the Ancient Greek word "kathartikos" (καθαρτικός), meaning "purifying" or "cleansing". This term was derived from the verb "kathairō" (καθαίρω), which means "to cleanse" or "to purify". The suffix "-id" in "cathartid" indicates a belonging or connection to the family of birds known as Cathartidae. Therefore, the term "cathartid" refers to a member of the Cathartidae family, which includes New World vultures such as the turkey vulture and the Andean condor.

Similar spelling words for CATHARTID

• cathartes,
• cathartic,
• cathartidae.