Hippopotamus

/ˌhɪpəˈpɒtəməs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A large, mostly herbivorous mammal, native to sub-Saharan Africa, known for its heavy body, short legs, and large mouth.

The hippopotamus is often found in rivers and lakes, where it spends much of its day submerged in water.

A member of the family Hippopotamidae, which includes the common hippopotamus and the pygmy hippopotamus.

The pygmy hippopotamus is smaller than its common relative and is less aquatic.

A symbol or characteristic of large size and mass.

When shopping for a new couch, she jokingly said she didn't want a piece of furniture that looked like a hippopotamus.

From the ancient Greek 'hippos' meaning 'horse' and 'potamos' meaning 'river'.

hippo costs

Refers to something that is expensive, derived from the large costs associated with caring for a hippopotamus.

hippotherapy

A therapeutic treatment using horseback riding.

herbivore

An animal that primarily eats plants.

A large or clumsy person.

He fell over the fence like a hippopotamus.

To describe something as big and unwieldy.

That car is a hippopotamus compared to my compact one.