Hippo Meaning and Definition
Hippo
Pronunciation
/ˈhɪpoʊ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A large, semi-aquatic mammal native to Africa and southeastern Asia, characterized by its rounded body, short legs, and large mouth.
Examples
- The hippo swam peacefully in the river.
- At the zoo, visitors could observe the hippo’s unique behavior.
Synonyms
- River cow
- Water buffalo
Antonyms
- Terrestrial
- Terror
Etymology
The word “hippopotamus” comes from the Greek word Ἱπποπόταμος (hippopótamos), composed of ἵππος (hippos), meaning “horse”, and&pòtas (pótos), meaning “drinking”.
Additional Information
Hippos are herbivores, feeding on aquatic plants, grasses, and leaves. They are social animals, often living in large groups called pods. In some African cultures, hippos are considered sacred animals.
Despite their size, hippos can be quite aggressive and are responsible for a significant number of human deaths each year due to their powerful jaws and sharp teeth.
Usage Notes
The word “hippo” is often used informally to refer to a person who is jovial or good-natured, similar to a panda.
Cultural References
In the classic Disney movie “The Lion King”, a character named Timon, a wise-cracking meerkat, refers to himself and his friend Pumbaa, a warthog, as “Hakuna Matata, what a wonderful hippo”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Hippo’s yawn” – a term used to describe a wide open mouth
- “Hippo’s fat” – a term used to describe extreme obesity
Related Words or Phrases
- Mamal
- Predator
Collocations
- Hippo and crocodile
- Hippo and lion
Frequency of Use
Hippo is a relatively uncommon word in modern language, but its usage is increasing due to increased awareness of African wildlife.
Common Misspellings
- Hippos
- Ipops