WOLVERINE Meaning and
Definition
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A wolverine is a medium-sized carnivorous mammal belonging to the Mustelidae family and the Gulo genus. Scientifically known as Gulo gulo, this species is primarily found in the Arctic and boreal regions of North America, Asia, and Europe. It has a stocky build, strong jaws, and short legs designed for agile movement in various terrains.
The wolverine is characterized by several unique attributes, including a thick, water-repellent fur coat that helps protect against extreme cold temperatures, making it well-suited for its cold habitats. With its strong sense of smell and acute hearing, the wolverine navigates its surroundings efficiently, even in deep snow or dense forests.
Known for its tenacity and fierce nature, the wolverine is an opportunistic predator, feeding on a diverse range of prey, such as small mammals, birds, eggs, carrion, and sometimes larger mammals like deer or even caribou. It is also notorious for its scavenging abilities, often stealing food from other predators. Due to its solitary and territorial nature, the wolverine requires a large home range to roam and hunt for food effectively.
Despite its relatively small size, the wolverine is reputed for its extraordinary strength, often capable of taking down prey much larger than itself when driven by hunger or aggression. Its name is derived from the Old English term "wulfvarine," which means "wolf-like," mirroring its ferocity and resilience.
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A carnivorous quadruped of the northern parts of Europe, Asia, and America; the glutton.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for WOLVERINE
Etymology of WOLVERINE
The word "wolverine" has an interesting etymology. It originated from Proto-Germanic roots.
The Old Norse word "ulo" meant "wolf", and the Proto-Germanic word "hurjan" meant "bear". These two words combined to form the Old English word "wulfhere" or "wulfhere", meaning "wolf-bear". Over time, the "h" in "here" was dropped, and the word "wolvere" emerged, with similar variations in other Germanic languages.
By the 16th century, the word had transformed into "wolverene" or "wolverine", referring specifically to the animal we know today. The reason for this name is uncertain, but it might be due to the animal's aggressive nature and its resemblance to both a wolf and a bear.
Similar spelling words for WOLVERINE
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