Saber-Tooth
/ˈseɪ.bər.tuːθ/noun
A large extinct carnivorous mammal with long, saber-like upper canine teeth.
Did you know?The “saber” in saber-tooth is the same word behind modern military sabers, ultimately from a Germanic root meaning a cutting weapon.
Etymological Timeline
17th Century
French
sabre
“A curved cavalry sword with a single cutting edge”
17th Century
English
saber
“A curved sword used for slashing”
19th Century
English
saber-tooth
“A descriptive name for animals with long, sword-like canine teeth”
19th Century
English
saber-toothed
“Having saber-like teeth; especially of extinct cats”
Modern English
English
saber-tooth
“An extinct mammal or cat-like animal with elongated upper canines”