How Do You Spell OKAPIS?

Pronunciation: [ˈɒkɐpˌiz] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "okapis" may seem confusing, but it becomes easier to understand when using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced as "oh" with a long "o" sound, followed by "ka," pronounced as "kay." The final syllable is "pees," pronounced with a long "e" sound and a soft "s" sound. Together, the correct pronunciation is "oh-KAY-pees." The word refers to an African mammal with a distinct striped pattern, similar to both a giraffe and a zebra.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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OKAPIS Meaning and Definition

  1. Okapis are large, herbivorous mammals native to the dense rainforests of Central Africa. Scientifically known as Okapia johnstoni, they are closely related to giraffes and are often referred to as "forest giraffes" or "zebra giraffes" due to their unique physical characteristics. Typically measuring around 5 to 6 feet in height at the shoulder, with a body length of approximately 7 to 8 feet and weighing between 440 to 770 pounds, okapis are considered to be medium-sized ungulates.

    Okapis possess an intriguing combination of physical features. They have a long neck and legs like giraffes, although their neck is shorter in proportion and their legs are not as long. Their fur is dense and velvety, featuring a beautiful chestnut-red coat with black and white stripes on their hindquarters and legs, providing effective camouflage in the dappled forest environment. Both males and females bear ossicones (small hornlike structures), but only the males display them prominently.

    Being primarily browsers, okapis feed on leaves, fruit, and other plant materials found in the forest. They have a specially adapted, prehensile tongue that helps them grasp foliage and strip it from branches. Okapis are solitary animals and are highly elusive, making them difficult to study and observe in the wild. They have a complex vocal repertoire and communicate through a series of deep, rumbling sounds and vocalizations.

    Due to habitat loss and hunting pressure for their meat, skins, and body parts, okapis are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Conservation efforts focused on protecting their rainforest habitats and tackling illegal hunting are crucial to ensuring the survival of this captivating and enigmatic species.

Common Misspellings for OKAPIS

Etymology of OKAPIS

The word "okapis" is derived from the proper name "Okapia", which refers to the genus of the okapi animal. In turn, the name "Okapia" was based on the Lese word "o'api", which is the indigenous name for this species. The etymology of "o'api" itself is uncertain.