Pachydermatous is a word that refers to having thick skin. It is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) symbols: /ˌpækɪdərˈmeɪtəs/ . The first sound, /p/, represents the voiceless bilabial plosive, followed by the /æ/ sound of "cat" and /k/ sound of "kind". The second syllable starts with the /ɪ/ vowel sound of "sit", then the /d/ sound of "dog", and the stressed secondary syllable ends with the /eɪ/ diphthong sound of "day". With this pronunciation guide, you can say and spell pachydermatous with confidence.
Pachydermatous is an adjective that refers to the characteristic of having a thick and tough skin. The term is derived from the Greek words "pachýs" meaning "thick" and "derma" meaning "skin."
In a literal sense, pachydermatous describes the physical quality of the skin. It is commonly used to describe the skin of certain animals that have a thick and insensitive epidermal layer, such as elephants, rhinoceroses, and hippopotamuses. These animals have developed this protective adaptation as a defense mechanism against external threats in their natural environments.
Figuratively, pachydermatous is also used to describe human behavior, indicating a person who exhibits insensitivity or thick-skinned qualities in their interactions with others. It suggests that such individuals are not easily affected or hurt by criticisms, emotional turmoil, or social pressure. This word can be used to describe someone who remains unfazed or unresponsive in the face of adversity or criticism, demonstrating a thick-skinned attitude.
Furthermore, pachydermatous can be employed in a metaphorical sense to describe objects or substances that are tough, resistant, or impenetrable. For instance, it may describe the properties of certain materials used in construction or manufacturing that are exceptionally durable, rigid, or hard to break down.
Overall, pachydermatous describes either the physical quality of having a thick and tough skin or the metaphorical traits of insensitivity, resilience, or impenetrability.
Relating to pachydermia, thick-skinned.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Thick-skinned.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pachydermatous" is derived from the Greek roots "pachys" meaning "thick" and "derma" meaning "skin". The term was coined in the early 19th century and is used to describe something or someone having thick or tough skin, typically in a figurative sense.