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Glite Dictionary
Xenarthra

Xenarthra

9.9
A group of mammals from Central and South America like armadillos, anteaters, and sloths
  • noun
  • /ˈzɛnɑrθrə/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Xenarthra
  • The order Xenarthra includes armadillos, anteaters, and sloths native to Central and South America.

Examples

  • Many unique skeletal features distinguish Xenarthra from other placental mammals.

  • The Xenarthra order includes fascinating creatures like sloths.

  • Recent studies have provided insight into the evolutionary history of Xenarthra.

  • Did you know that Xenarthras are primarily found in South America?

  • The anteater is a classic example of a xenarthra, known for its long snout and tongue.

  • Armadillos, which belong to the order xenarthra, are famous for their leathery armor.

  • In the Amazon rainforest, sloths are one of the most recognizable species within the xenarthra group.

Compounds

suborder Xenarthra
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of mammals like armadillos, anteaters, and sloths from the Americas

Surface Forms

Xenarthra singular
Xenarthras plural

Etymology

Xenarthra comes from Greek parts meaning 'strange' (xeno-) and 'joint' (arthr-). So it literally means 'strange joints' and refers to the extra joints in their spine, and you can remember the 'joint' part from the common word arthritis.