Ailuroidea

/ˌaɪ.lʊˈrɔɪ.di.ə/ noun

Definition

A superfamily in mammalian taxonomy that includes cats, dogs, bears, raccoons, weasels, and related carnivorous mammals.

Etymology

From Greek 'ailouros' (cat) plus '-oidea' (taxonomic superfamily suffix), literally 'cat-like group.' This taxonomic rank groups related families together based on evolutionary relationships.

Kelly Says

The superfamily Ailuroidea is nature's way of saying 'all these carnivores evolved from the same ancestor'—and that ancestor had sharp teeth and hunting instincts that worked so well they never needed changing!

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