What does herbivore mean?

Pronunciation

🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A herbivore is an animal that feeds exclusively on plants and plant-based foods, such as fruits, leaves, and grains.

Examples

• The giraffe is a herbivore, eating leaves from tall trees.
• Some animals are herbivores, like cows, rabbits, and deer.

Synonyms

• Vegetarian
• Plant-eater

Antonyms

• Carnivore
• Omnivore

Etymology

The word “herbivore” comes from the Latin words “herba,” meaning grass or plant, and “vorus,” meaning devourer or eater.

Usage Notes

When using the term “herbivore,” be specific about the type of plants or foods being consumed, as some animals may be selective about their diet.

Cultural References

In popular culture, herbivores are often depicted in cartoons, films, and literature as friendly and gentle animals, but this portrayal can reinforce speciesist attitudes.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• To eat like a herbivore
• To be a herbivore at heart

Related Words or Phrases

• Herba
• Planktivore

Collocations

• Herbivore species
• Herbivore diet

Frequency of Use

The word “herbivore” is commonly used in biological and scientific contexts, as well as in everyday conversation.

Common Misspellings

• Herbivor
• Herbivour