Elephantous

/ˌɛləˈfæntəs/ adjective

Definition

Archaic or rare variant term meaning elephant-like, having the qualities or appearance of an elephant; resembling an elephant.

Etymology

From 'elephant' plus the suffix '-ous' (full of, characterized by), an alternative formation to 'elephantine' that never achieved common usage.

Kelly Says

English had multiple competing words for 'elephant-like'—'elephantine,' 'elephantic,' 'elephantous'—but 'elephantine' won out, showing how language competition results in winners and losers that seem almost random!

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