MARSUPIUM Meaning and
Definition
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A marsupium is a term derived from Latin, commonly referred to as the pouch or pocket-like structure found in marsupials, which is a subclass of mammals. Specifically, it serves as a unique external reproductive feature that distinguishes marsupials from other animals. The marsupium is a specialized fold of skin located on the abdominal region of female marsupials, just below their belly. In most marsupial species, such as kangaroos, koalas, and possums, it is formed to protect and nurture the undeveloped newborns, also known as joeys.
The marsupium is primarily responsible for providing a safe and regulated environment for the fetus during its early developmental stages after birth. Immediately after birth, the tiny, premature young marsupials crawl into the marsupium where they attach themselves to teats. Within the marsupium, the newborns receive nourishment from their mothers' milk, warmth, and protection from external dangers. The term "marsupial" itself is derived from the Latin word "marsupium," meaning "pouch," highlighting the significance of this unique structure.
While the marsupium is most commonly associated with female marsupials, it is worth noting that male marsupials also possess a marsupium, although it is vestigial and lacks the functionality of female marsupials' pouches. Overall, the marsupium plays a vital role in the reproductive physiology and survival of marsupials, providing a nurturing environment that allows for the successful development of their young.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The pouch of marsupial animals; a dark-coloured membrane in the vitreous body of the eyes of birds.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MARSUPIUM
- narsupium
- karsupium
- jarsupium
- mzrsupium
- msrsupium
- mwrsupium
- mqrsupium
- maesupium
- madsupium
- mafsupium
- matsupium
- ma5supium
- ma4supium
- maraupium
- marzupium
- marxupium
- mardupium
- mareupium
- marwupium
Etymology of MARSUPIUM
The word "marsupium" comes from the Latin term "marsūpĭum", which means "pouch" or "purse". It is derived from the Latin word "marsupium", which refers to the pouch of a marsupial, an order of mammals that includes kangaroos, koalas, and wombats. The term was later adopted into English in the field of biology to describe the abdominal pouch found in female marsupials where their young develop.
Similar spelling words for MARSUPIUM
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