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Glite Dictionary
genus Mimus

genus Mimus

9.9
A group of mockingbird species that live in North and South America
  • noun
  • /ˈdʒɛnəs ˈmaɪməs/
  • Specialized
: género Mimus
  • The genus Mimus includes several species commonly known as mockingbirds.

Examples

  • The genus Mimus includes several species of mockingbirds.

  • The genus Mimus is widespread throughout North and South America.

  • Researchers identified the bird as part of the genus Mimus after noticing its mimicking behavior.

  • Did you know that the genus Mimus is found primarily in the Americas?

  • The genus Mimus includes several species commonly known as mockingbirds.

  • Researchers identified the bird as part of the genus Mimus after noticing its mimicking behavior.

  • The genus Mimus is widespread throughout North and South America.

Synonyms

Mimus
vsgenus Mimus
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of mockingbird species

specifies typical mockingbird species native to the Americas

Surface Forms

genus Mimus singular
genera Mimus plural

Morphology

genus + Mimus

The phrase names a taxonomic group and is directly compositional: 'genus' (a biological rank grouping related species) combined with the proper name 'Mimus' yields 'the genus called Mimus, comprising mockingbirds.' Although technical, this is a straightforward naming pattern found across languages, so a B1 learner who knows the constituent words can infer the meaning.

Etymology

Genus Mimus takes its name from an old Latin word Mimus, which means 'mimic' or 'actor'. These mockingbirds copy other birds and sounds, so the name fits their habit of 'copying' others.