SAPAJOU Meaning and
Definition
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Sapajou is a noun that refers to a small South American monkey, specifically belonging to the genus Cebus. The term is primarily used in zoology and primatology to describe these primate species.
The Sapajou is part of the family of New World monkeys, native to the tropical rainforests and wooded areas of South America. It is characterized by its small size, ranging from 12 to 24 inches in length. Sapajous typically have a slender body with long limbs and a long prehensile tail, which allows them to move agilely through the trees. Their physical appearance varies among species, but they generally have a robust head, round eyes, and a flat face with a well-developed sense of smell. They are also known for their exceptional dexterity and manual skills, using their hands and tail for climbing, grasping objects, and feeding.
Sapajous are omnivorous creatures, consuming a diverse diet that includes fruits, nuts, seeds, insects, small vertebrates, and even bird eggs. They are highly adaptable and can inhabit various types of forests, ranging from dry to wet environments. Sapajous are known for their social nature, living in groups or troops consisting of around 20 individuals, led by a dominant male. They engage in complex social interactions, communicate through vocalizations, and develop strong bonds with their group members.
The term "Sapajou" carries a historical significance as well, often used in older literature and documents to describe monkeys or primates in general. In modern scientific usage, however, the term has become more specific, referring solely to the Cebus genus.
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A S. Amer. variety of monkey.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SAPAJOU
- aapajou
- zapajou
- xapajou
- dapajou
- eapajou
- wapajou
- szpajou
- sspajou
- swpajou
- sqpajou
- saoajou
- salajou
- sa-ajou
- sa0ajou
- sapzjou
- sapsjou
- sapwjou
- sapqjou
- sapahou
- sapanou
Etymology of SAPAJOU
The word "sapajou" is derived from French, but its exact origin is uncertain. It is believed to have been borrowed from a Tupi-Guarani word, possibly from the language of the Tupinambá people in Brazil. The original Tupi-Guarani word that influenced its formation might have been "nhsapayú" or "xapayó", which referred to various types of monkeys or primates. Over time, this word made its way into the French language, retaining its original meaning of a monkey or a South American primate.
