Choeropsis

/ˌkoʊəˈrɒpsɪs/ noun

Definition

A genus of small African hippopotamuses, sometimes called pygmy hippos, that live in rivers and forests of West Africa.

Etymology

From Greek 'choiros' (pig) and 'opsis' (appearance), literally meaning 'pig-like appearance.' Named by European naturalists who thought the small hippo resembled a pig more than its larger relative.

Kelly Says

Pygmy hippos were so rare and elusive that scientists didn't actually study live specimens until the 1910s—this animal kept its secrets from the world so well that Europeans nearly called it a giant pig!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.