How Do You Spell ERINACEOUS?

Pronunciation: [ˌɛɹɪnˈe͡ɪʃəs] (IPA)

The word "Erinaceous" is a rare adjective used to describe something that is hedgehog-like. Its phonetic transcription in IPA is /ɛrɪˈneɪʃəs/. The first syllable "er-i" is pronounced with the "eh" sound, followed by the "r" sound. The next syllable "nay" is pronounced with a long "a" sound, followed by the "sh" sound. The final syllable "us" is pronounced with a short "u" and "s" sound. Despite its uncommon usage, knowing the correct spelling and pronunciation of words such as "Erinaceous" can broaden one's vocabulary and enhance one's communication skills.

ERINACEOUS Meaning and Definition

1. Erinaceous is an adjective that refers to something that is related to, resembling, or characteristic of a hedgehog. It comes from the Latin word "erinaceus," which means hedgehog. Primarily used in biology and zoology, Erinaceous describes any feature, behavior, or quality shared with or analogous to hedgehogs.

   When referring to appearance, erinaceous might describe a spiky or prickly texture. For example, the erinaceous leaves of certain plants have tiny thorns or spines that resemble the quills of a hedgehog. Similarly, in describing an erinaceous animal, it might refer to a mammal with spiky or bristly fur, resembling the protective covering of a hedgehog.

   Apart from animal and plant characteristics, the term can also be figuratively applied to other features or qualities. For instance, one might describe a person's personality as erinaceous to convey a perceived aloofness or guarded nature reminiscent of a hedgehog's tendency to roll into a protective ball when threatened.

   Overall, the term erinaceous is employed to draw similarities or comparisons to hedgehogs, either literally or metaphorically. It captures the essence of the unique physical and behavioral traits associated with these small, spiky mammals.

Common Misspellings for ERINACEOUS

• wrinaceous
• srinaceous
• drinaceous
• rrinaceous
• 4rinaceous
• 3rinaceous
• eeinaceous
• edinaceous
• efinaceous
• etinaceous
• e5inaceous
• e4inaceous
• erunaceous
• erjnaceous
• erknaceous
• eronaceous
• er9naceous
• er8naceous
• erimaceous
• Epinaceous

Etymology of ERINACEOUS

The word "erinaceous" has its roots in Latin. It comes from the Latin word "erinaceus", meaning hedgehog. The Latin term itself is derived from the Greek word "erinaikos", which also means hedgehog. The word "erinaceous" was first used in English in the early 17th century to describe something related to or resembling a hedgehog. Over time, its usage has evolved, and it is now primarily used in scientific or technical contexts to describe characteristics or traits similar to those of a hedgehog.

Idioms with the word ERINACEOUS

• erinaceous