Cavy

/ˈkeɪvi/ noun

Definition

A small furry rodent, especially a guinea pig, native to South America.

Etymology

From Portuguese 'cavia' or Spanish 'cavy', ultimately derived from Tupi indigenous language word for the animal; entered English through colonial trade routes.

Kelly Says

Guinea pigs earned their 'cavy' nickname from their resemblance to cavies in South America, though the name 'guinea pig' stuck despite being geographically and biologically wrong on both counts!

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