Meaning & Definition of word "Hippopotamus"
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Hippopotamus
/ˌhɪpəˈpɒtəməs/
noun:
- 1. A large, mostly herbivorous mammal, native to sub-Saharan Africa, known for its heavy body, short legs, and large mouth.
- Example: The hippopotamus is often found in rivers and lakes, where it spends much of its day submerged in water.
- 2. A member of the family Hippopotamidae, which includes the common hippopotamus and the pygmy hippopotamus.
- Example: The pygmy hippopotamus is smaller than its common relative and is less aquatic.
- 3. A symbol or characteristic of large size and mass.
- Example: When shopping for a new couch, she jokingly said she didn't want a piece of furniture that looked like a hippopotamus.
Etymology
From the ancient Greek 'hippos' meaning 'horse' and 'potamos' meaning 'river'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
hippo costs:
Refers to something that is expensive, derived from the large costs associated with caring for a hippopotamus.
Related Words
hippotherapy:
A therapeutic treatment using horseback riding.
herbivore:
An animal that primarily eats plants.
Slang Meanings of hippopotamus
Meaning: A large or clumsy person.
Example Sentence: He fell over the fence like a hippopotamus.
Meaning: To describe something as big and unwieldy.
Example Sentence: That car is a hippopotamus compared to my compact one.