Meaning & Definition of word "Carnivore"

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    Carnivore

    /ˈkɑːrnɪvɔːr/

    noun:

    • 1. An animal that primarily eats flesh or meat.
      • Example: Lions are well-known carnivores, hunting other animals for their food.
    • 2. A member of a taxonomic group that includes carnivorous animals.
      • Example: Dogs and cats are both classified as carnivores, though they may also consume some plant material.
    • 3. A type of plant that traps and digests insects and other small organisms for nutrients.
      • Example: The Venus flytrap is a fascinating carnivore, capturing flies with its jaw-like leaves.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'carnivorus' meaning 'flesh-eating' (from 'caro' meaning 'meat' and 'vorare' meaning 'to devour').

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    top of the food chain:

    Refers to carnivores that have no natural predators.

    wild carnivore:

    A term used to describe carnivores that live in their natural habitat.

    carnivore diet:

    A dietary regimen that consists primarily of animal products.

    Related Words

    herbivore:

    An animal that primarily eats plants.

    omnivore:

    An animal that eats both plants and animals.

    predator:

    An animal that preys on others for food.

    Slang Meanings of carnivore

    Meaning: Meat lover

    Example Sentence: He's a total carnivore; he can't resist a good steak.

    Meaning: Flesh fan

    Example Sentence: At that barbecue, everyone was a carnivore, devouring the ribs.