LEMING Meaning and
Definition
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A lemming is a small, short-tailed rodent belonging to the subfamily Arvicolinae, primarily found in arctic and subarctic regions. It is characterized by its compact body, prominent incisors, and dense fur, which helps it adapt to extremely cold climates. Lemmings typically measure around 10 to 15 cm in length and exhibit variations in color, with the most common being brown or gray.
These creatures are known for their significant population fluctuations and migratory behavior. They are considered social animals, living in colonies or groups that can number in the thousands. Lemmings are herbivorous, feeding mainly on grasses, mosses, and other vegetation found in their habitats.
Lemmings gained attention worldwide due to the widely circulated myth that they commit mass suicidal jumps off cliffs. However, this belief is erroneous, as these periodic, large-scale movements are driven by ecological factors such as a decrease in food availability or overpopulation, rather than conscious suicidal tendencies.
The term "lemming" is often used metaphorically to describe someone who mindlessly follows the crowd or engages in self-destructive behavior. It implies a blind adherence to prevailing trends or opinions without thoughtful consideration. This figurative usage is derived from the misconception that lemmings engage in mass suicide, symbolizing a lack of critical thinking or individual agency.
Common Misspellings for LEMING
- laming
- lemin
- lemming
- lemeing
- lemig
- LEMENg
- oeming
- ldming
- lrming
- l4ming
- l3ming
- lejing
- lemung
- lemjng
- lemkng
- lem9ng
- lem8ng
- lemibg
- lemimg
- lemijg
Etymology of LEMING
The word "leming" comes from the Norwegian word "lemming", which is derived from the Old Norse word "lǫmr". In Norwegian and other Scandinavian languages, "lemming" refers to a small rodent-like creature known for its migratory behavior. The word "lemming" entered the English language in the early 18th century, originally used to represent this species. Over time, it also gained metaphorical use in the sense of people mindlessly following each other or engaging in self-destructive behavior, likely inspired by stories of mass lemming migration, wherein large numbers of lemmings were believed to blindly follow and plunge to their deaths off cliffs.
Similar spelling words for LEMING
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