Porcupine
/ˈpɔːr.kjʊ.paɪn/noun
A large, spiny rodent known for its defensive quills.
Did you know?The name 'porcupine' originates from the Latin term for 'spined pig', reflecting its formidable defense mechanism against predators.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
porcus
“pig”
Latin
Latin
spina
“thorn or spine”
Old French
Old French
porc espin
“spined pig”
Middle English
Middle English
porcupin
“a spiny animal or creature”
Modern English
English
porcupine
“a rodent with sharp quills for defense”