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Glite Dictionary
Erethizon

Erethizon

9.9
A large porcupine found in North America with sharp quills
  • noun
  • /ˌɛrəˈθaɪzən/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Erethizon
  • The best-known member of the genus Erethizon is the North American porcupine.

Examples

  • Erethizon is the only genus of New World porcupines found in North America.

  • Researchers have studied Erethizon to understand the evolution of quills in rodents.

  • The Erethizon is known for its sharp quills.

  • Many Erethizons can be found in North America.

  • Erethizon includes several species of porcupines that are native to the Americas.

  • The North American porcupine is a well-known species within the genus Erethizon.

  • Animal lovers are fascinated by Erethizon due to their unique quills and behavior.

Synonyms

genus Erethizon
vsErethizon
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of large rodents that includes the North American porcupine

uses a common New World porcupine label rather than family name

Compounds

Erethizon dorsatum
  • Specialized
9.9

A large North American porcupine with sharp quills that protect it

genus Erethizon
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of large rodents that includes the North American porcupine

Surface Forms

Erethizon singular
Erethizons plural

Etymology

Erethizon comes from the old Greek verb erethizein, which means 'to irritate' or 'to rouse'; you can remember it because porcupine quills can irritate or prick what touches them. So the scientific name points to the porcupine's sharp, defensive nature.