The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

mammal

IPA:

Dictionary definition of mammal

A class of vertebrate animals that belong to the phylum Chordata and the subphylum Vertebrata.
"Bats are the only mammal capable of sustained flight."

Detailed meaning of mammal

Mammals are characterized by a distinctive set of features that distinguish them from other animal groups. One defining characteristic of mammals is the presence of mammary glands in females, which produce milk to nourish their young. Mammals also possess hair or fur, providing insulation and protection. Another distinguishing feature is the ability to regulate their body temperature internally, a characteristic known as endothermy. Mammals typically give birth to live young, as opposed to laying eggs, and they have specialized teeth adapted for different diets, including herbivorous, carnivorous, and omnivorous. This diverse group encompasses a wide range of species, including humans, dogs, cats, whales, bats, elephants, and many more. Mammals are found in various habitats worldwide, exhibiting remarkable adaptations and behaviors that have allowed them to thrive in different environments. Their ability to exhibit complex social structures, learn, and adapt has contributed to their evolutionary success and their status as one of the most diverse and widespread groups of animals on Earth.

Example sentences containing mammal

1. The mammal's fur glistened in the moonlight as it scurried through the forest.
2. A newborn mammal relies on its mother's milk for nourishment.
3. The mammal's adaptation to cold climates includes thick fur and blubber.
4. The cheetah is the fastest land mammal, capable of incredible speeds.
5. Mammals like dolphins are known for their high intelligence and social behavior.
6. The platypus is a unique mammal that lays eggs and has a duck-like bill.

History and etymology of mammal

The term 'mammal' finds its etymological roots in Latin and Middle English. It originates from the Latin word 'mamma,' which means 'breast' or 'udder.' This Latin term was adopted into Middle English as 'mamel' or 'mammel,' referring to a group of animals distinguished by the presence of mammary glands, which are used to nurse their young with milk. Over time, the word evolved into 'mammal' in modern English, describing a class of vertebrate animals belonging to the phylum Chordata and the subphylum Vertebrata. The etymology of 'mammal' underscores the defining characteristic of this animal group, the presence of mammary glands and the nurturing of offspring with milk, making it a distinctive and appropriate term for this biological class.

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Further usage examples of mammal

1. The jaguar is a fierce and stealthy South American mammal.
2. Humans are a highly evolved species of mammal with complex societies.
3. The whale shark, a filter-feeding mammal, is the largest fish in the sea.
4. Bats are the only mammal capable of sustained flight.
5. The kangaroo is a marsupial mammal found in Australia.
6. The panda, a beloved mammal, is an endangered species.
7. The aardvark is an unusual mammal known for its long tongue and burrowing habits.
8. The Arctic fox is a well-adapted mammal for harsh, cold environments.
9. The beaver, a semiaquatic mammal, builds intricate dams in rivers.
10. Some species of anteaters are the only mammals without teeth.
11. The echidna, another egg-laying mammal, has spiky quills.
12. Whales, the largest marine mammals, communicate using intricate songs.
13. The lemur is a primate mammal found in Madagascar.
14. A mother mammal nurtures and protects her young with great care.
15. The elephant is the largest land mammal on Earth.
16. The dolphin is a highly intelligent marine mammal.
17. Humans are the only mammal capable of rational thought.
18. The kangaroo is a marsupial mammal found in Australia.
19. Whales are magnificent aquatic mammals that can reach enormous sizes.
20. The cheetah is the fastest land mammal, capable of incredible speeds.
21. Monkeys and apes are primates, a group of mammals known for their intelligence.
22. The platypus is a unique mammal that lays eggs and has a bill like a duck.
23. Squirrels are small, agile mammals known for their ability to climb trees.
24. The humpback whale is a migratory mammal known for its beautiful songs.
25. The lion is a majestic mammal often referred to as the king of the jungle.