feral etymology

Etymology

  • Latin: ferus ("wild, untamed")

Meaning and Origin

The word "feral" describes animals that have become wild after being domesticated. It originally referred to wild animals, such as wolves and bears, but it is now also used to describe domesticated animals that have escaped captivity and reverted to a wild state.

The word entered the English language in the 16th century from the Latin word "ferus," which means "wild" or "untamed." It is related to the word "ferocious," which means "fierce" or "savage."

Over time, the meaning of "feral" has expanded to include animals that have been born and raised in the wild, as well as those that have escaped captivity. Feral animals are often considered to be pests, as they can compete with native species for food and resources. However, they can also be important members of ecosystems, as they help to control populations of other species.

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