Meaning & Definition of word "Rhinoceros"
Rhinoceros
/raɪˈnɒs.ər.əs/
noun:
- 1. A large, thick-skinned herbivorous mammal of the family Rhinocerotidae, characterized by one or two horns on its snout.
- Example: The rhinoceros is known for its formidable horn, which can be made of keratin.
- 2. An animal of the genus Rhinoceros, which includes several species such as the white rhinoceros and the Indian rhinoceros.
- Example: Conservation efforts are crucial to protect the endangered species of the rhinoceros.
- 3. A term used to refer to any of the species in the family Rhinocerotidae.
- Example: The safari offered a chance to see a rhinoceros in its natural habitat.
- 4. In a broader sense, a rhinoceros can refer to someone who is very large or strong in a metaphorical context.
- Example: He charged through the crowd like a rhinoceros, leaving everyone in his wake.
Etymology
●From Greek 'rhinokerōs', meaning 'nose-horned'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
rhinoceros in the room:
A problem or issue that is obvious but ignored.
rhino charge:
An aggressive or swift approach to tackling a task or problem.
Related Words
horn:
A hard structure protruding from the head of some animals, like the rhinoceros.
ungulate:
A member of a diverse group of hoofed animals to which rhinoceroses belong.
Slang Meanings of rhinoceros
Meaning: A person who is big and strong.
● Example Sentence: Don’t mess with him, he’s a real rhinoceros!
Meaning: Someone who is very stubborn or tough to deal with.
● Example Sentence: My boss is such a rhinoceros; he won't change his mind easily.