The spelling of the word "hircus" may seem counterintuitive, but it actually follows the rules of Latin-based words in English. The word, meaning "a goat," is pronounced /ˈhɜːrkəs/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet. The "h" at the beginning of the word is silent, and the "c" is pronounced like a "k." The "-us" ending is common in Latin-based words and is used to indicate singular masculine nouns. So, next time you come across the word "hircus," remember its Latin roots and unique spelling.
Hircus is a noun denoting a domestic or feral goat, typically referring to the male specimen of the species. The word is derived from the Latin "hircus" which means "male goat" or "buck." It belongs to the genus Capra and is commonly found throughout various parts of the world.
The hircus is known for its distinctive physical characteristics, including a short and stocky body, long and curved horns, and a beard that is usually more pronounced in males. It has a strong and agile constitution, enabling it to traverse rocky terrains with ease. Hircus goats are often valued for their meat, milk, and wool, which have been utilized by humans for centuries.
Due to their adaptability, hircus goats are found in diverse habitats, ranging from grasslands to mountains. They are known for their ability to forage a wide variety of vegetation, making them a versatile species that can thrive in different ecosystems. Hircus goats are sociable animals that are often found in herds, displaying a hierarchical structure led by a dominant male.
In addition to their economic importance, hircus goats also hold cultural and symbolic significance in various societies. Their portrayal in folklore and mythology as symbols of fertility, stubbornness, and strength adds to their cultural prominence. Overall, the hircus is a resilient and adaptable goat species that has been a part of human civilization for centuries, providing valuable resources and embodying diverse cultural meanings.
1. The odor of the axillae. 2. One of the hairs growing in the axillae. 3. Tragus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hircus" is derived from Latin. It comes from the Proto-Italic word *hīrkos, which ultimately traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root *ĝʰēr-, meaning "goat". This root also gave rise to various related words in other languages, such as the Greek word "trágos" (meaning "male goat") and the Sanskrit word "ajá" (also meaning "goat"). The Latin term "hircus" specifically referred to a male goat, while the female goat was called "capra".