Gorilloid

/ɡəˈrɪlɔɪd/ adjective

Definition

Resembling or similar to a gorilla in form or characteristics; having gorilla-like qualities.

Etymology

Formed from 'gorilla' plus the -oid suffix (from Greek -oides, meaning 'form' or 'resemblance'). This suffix appears in scientific terms like 'anthropoid' and 'hominoid.'

Kelly Says

The -oid suffix is science's favorite tool for saying 'looks like but isn't'—'gorilloid' means gorilla-shaped while 'hominoid' means human-shaped, letting scientists describe resemblances without claiming something IS that thing.

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