MACHAIRODUS Meaning and
Definition
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Machairodus is a genus of extinct carnivorous mammals belonging to the family Felidae. Also known as the machairodonts or saber-toothed cats, these large and powerful predators roamed the Earth during the Pleistocene epoch, from around 9 million to 11,000 years ago. The name Machairodus is derived from the Greek words "machairos" meaning "curved" and "odon" meaning "tooth," referring to the distinctive feature that sets these cats apart - their incredibly long and sharply curved upper canine teeth.
Machairodus species had a robust and muscular build, resembling modern-day lions or tigers, but with some distinct differences. Their most notable feature was their elongated upper canines, which extended well beyond their lower jaws when their mouths were closed. These impressive canines were ideal for delivering powerful stabbing bites to prey, allowing the cats to immobilize and kill their victims swiftly.
These carnivores were highly adaptive, inhabiting various ecosystems ranging from forests and grasslands to savannas and open steppes. They likely hunted large herbivorous mammals like horses, bison, and even other smaller carnivores. With their exceptional hunting abilities and formidable size, Machairodus species were apex predators, occupying the top of the food chain in their respective environments.
Although Machairodus went extinct around 11,000 years ago, their remnants have been preserved in the fossil record, providing valuable insights into the evolutionary history of large felids. The fossil discoveries afford scientists the opportunity to study these fascinating creatures and unravel the mysteries surrounding their behavior, diet, and interactions with other species.
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In geol., a genus of carnivorous mammals found in certain Tertiaries and bone-caves of Europe-so called from the trenchant, sharp-pointed, and sabre-shape of its upper canines.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MACHAIRODUS
- nachairodus
- kachairodus
- jachairodus
- mzchairodus
- mschairodus
- mwchairodus
- mqchairodus
- maxhairodus
- mavhairodus
- mafhairodus
- madhairodus
- macgairodus
- macbairodus
- macnairodus
- macjairodus
- macuairodus
- macyairodus
- machzirodus
- machsirodus
Etymology of MACHAIRODUS
The word "Machairodus" originates from Ancient Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "machaira" meaning "sword", and "odous" meaning "tooth". Together, "Machairodus" translates to "sword-toothed" or "sword-tooth". This name refers to the prominent and elongated upper canine teeth that the prehistoric saber-toothed cats possessed, which resembled curved swords or daggers.
Similar spelling words for MACHAIRODUS
- Macrotous,
- machaeroides,
- trans-migrates,
- Microtesia,
- macrotis,
- microwatts,
- McCurtis,
- MACORTS,
- re-migrates,
- migrates,
- mugardos,
- megarads,
- MICRODIS,
- MGRIDS,
- makereadies,
- MICROTAS,
- macrotus,
- makharadze,
- mccourts,
- mugworts,
- Machaerodus,
- microtus,
- mkreutz@ap.org,
- Macrotes,
- MICROTIS.
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