How Do You Spell PACA?

Pronunciation: [pˈakə] (IPA)

The word "paca" can be spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /pəˈkɑː/. The first sound is a voiced bilabial plosive, represented by the letter "p". The second sound is a schwa, represented by the symbol "ə". The third sound is a voiced velar stop, represented by the letter "k". The final sound is an open back unrounded vowel, represented by the letter "a". This word refers to a type of rodent found in Central and South America with distinctive white spots on its dark fur.

PACA Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "paca" is primarily used to refer to a South American rodent known as Cuniculus paca, which belongs to the family Dasyproctidae. It is often called a "spotted paca" due to its distinct fur pattern characterized by dark spots on a light brown or white background. This medium-sized mammal is found across Central and South America, inhabiting dense forests, shrubby areas, or grasslands near water sources.

    In terms of physical appearance, the paca typically measures around 60-80 centimeters in length, with a robust body structure and short legs. It possesses a rounded head with small, rounded ears and relatively large eyes. The front feet of the paca are adapted for digging, whereas its hind limbs are relatively longer and built for speed. Notably, this unique species is recognized for the presence of rough skin pads on the soles of its feet, enabling it to move silently through the forest.

    Pacas are herbivorous creatures, primarily feeding on fruits, seeds, leaves, and tender vegetation; however, they may also consume bark and occasionally small invertebrates. These nocturnal animals are known to be mainly solitary and highly territorial, preferring to construct burrows and dense tunnels in the ground, which provide shelter and protection against predators.

    Due to their attractive fur and as a potential food source, pacas have been hunted extensively by humans, resulting in population decline and listing them as a species of concern in some regions. Nevertheless, their nocturnal lifestyle and elusive nature make them challenging to observe and study in their natural habitat.

  2. A small animal of S. Amer. of a blackish-brown colour spotted with white.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PACA

Etymology of PACA

The word "paca" originated from the Tupi language, an indigenous language spoken by the Tupi people of Brazil. Originally, it was spelled as "paka" in Tupi, but later adopted by the Portuguese language as "paca". The term refers to a type of large rodent found in Central and South America, scientifically known as Agouti paca.

Similar spelling words for PACA

Plural form of PACA is PACAS

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: