Sciurognath
/ˈsaɪ.jʊə.roʊˌɡnæθ/noun
A rodent characterized by a sciurognathous jaw structure, in which the lower incisor roots curve backward within the jaw.
Did you know?The first element ultimately comes from Greek skiouros, “squirrel,” traditionally explained as “shadow-tail,” referring to the animal’s bushy tail moving like a shadow.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
σκίουρος (skiouros)
“Squirrel; traditionally interpreted as “shadow-tail” from skia, “shadow,” and oura, “tail””
Ancient Greek
Greek
γνάθος (gnathos)
“Jaw or cheek”
19th Century
New Latin
Sciurognathi
“A zoological grouping name meaning “squirrel-jawed,” based on the characteristic jaw form of certain rodents”
19th Century
Scientific English
sciurognathous
“Having the jaw structure associated with sciurognath rodents”
Modern English
English
sciurognath
“A rodent possessing that jaw structure”
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