Ailuropoda is a term that is not commonly heard in everyday conversations. However, it is a word that has a significant meaning in the field of science and biology. In this article, we will delve into the definition and meaning of Ailuropoda, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Ailuropoda is a genus of the mammalian family Ursidae, commonly known as the giant panda. It is a black and white bear that is native to China. The word Ailuropoda is derived from the Greek words ‘ailuros’ meaning “cat” and ‘podos’ meaning “foot,” which refers to the panda’s paw-like markings.
Origin
The giant panda has been known to humans for over 3,000 years. The first Westerner to describe the panda was a French missionary named Armand David in 1869. However, the panda was not recognized as a distinct species until 1927 when it was classified as Ailuropoda melanoleuca.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, Ailuropoda is defined as “a genus of bears comprising a single species, the giant panda, which is native to China and has distinctive black-and-white markings.” Merriam-Webster defines Ailuropoda as “a genus of bears comprising only the giant panda.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines Ailuropoda as “a type of bear with black and white fur, found mainly in China.”
Associations
Ailuropoda is associated with the giant panda, which is a symbol of peace and friendship in China. The panda has become an iconic species and is often used in logos, advertising, and branding. It is also associated with conservation efforts as the giant panda is an endangered species.
Synonyms
There are no synonyms for Ailuropoda as it is a scientific name for a specific genus of bears.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for Ailuropoda as it is a scientific name for a specific genus of bears.
The same root words
The root words of Ailuropoda are ‘ailuros’ meaning “cat” and ‘podos’ meaning “foot.” These words are also found in other scientific names such as Ailurus fulgens, which is the scientific name for the red panda.
Example Sentences
- Ailuropoda melanoleuca is the scientific name for the giant panda.
- The markings on the Ailuropoda’s paws resemble those of a cat.
- The Ailuropoda is an endangered species and is protected by conservation efforts.
- The Ailuropoda is a symbol of peace and friendship in China.
- The Ailuropoda’s diet mainly consists of bamboo.