MAMMAL Meaning and
Definition
-
A mammal is a class of vertebrate animals characterized by certain distinctive traits. It is a warm-blooded creature that belongs to a group within the animal kingdom known as Mammalia. The term "mammal" refers to a wide range of organisms, including both aquatic and terrestrial species, and it encompasses a diverse array of creatures such as whales, elephants, cats, bats, and humans.
One defining characteristic of mammals is that they give birth to live young. Unlike reptiles or most fish, mammals possess mammary glands, which produce milk to nourish their newborns. This unique trait contributes to the name of the class, as "mammal" stems from the Latin word mamma, meaning breast. Additionally, mammals possess hair or fur covering their bodies, which aids in insulation and protection.
Mammals also possess a highly developed system of internal organs, including a complex nervous system. They have a specialized type of teeth, with different forms for herbivorous, carnivorous, and omnivorous animals. With few exceptions, mammals breathe using lungs rather than gills and possess a diaphragm to aid in respiration.
Mammals have evolved a wide range of adaptations to various ecological niches. They can be found in almost every habitat on Earth, from the freezing tundra to the depths of the oceans. Their physiological and behavioral diversity has allowed mammals to thrive in numerous environments and occupy different ecological roles, making them one of the most successful and widespread groups of animals on the planet.
-
An animal that suckles its young.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for MAMMAL *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for MAMMAL
Etymology of MAMMAL
The word "mammal" has its etymology rooted in Latin. It derives from the Latin word "mammalis", which translates to "of the breast". This is because mammals are characterized by their ability to nurse their young with milk produced by mammary glands, located on the chest or abdomen of females. The Latin word "mamma" means "breast" or "udder". The term "mammal" was first used in the late 18th century to describe the class of animals that give live birth to young and nurse them with milk.
Similar spelling words for MAMMAL
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
