Giraffidae

/dʒɪˈræfɪdiː/ noun

Definition

The scientific family name that includes giraffes and okapis, characterized by their distinctive body shape and dietary adaptations.

Etymology

From 'giraffa' (the genus) with the Latin family suffix '-idae,' used systematically in taxonomy to denote all organisms descended from a common ancestor.

Kelly Says

The Giraffidae family is fascinating because okapis, which look like they're part zebra-antelope, are actually the giraffe's closest living relative—their shared ancestor lived millions of years ago.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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