armadillo

views updated Jun 11 2018

ar·ma·dil·lo / ˌärməˈdilō/ • n. (pl. -os) a nocturnal omnivorous mammal native to Central and South America, with large claws for digging and a body covered in bony plates. Several genera and species include the nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus, family Dasypodidae).

The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English

armadillo

views updated May 18 2018

armadillo Nocturnal, burrowing mammal found from Texas to Argentina, noted for the armour of bony plates that protect its back and sides. When attacked, some species roll into a defensive ball. It eats insects, carrion and plants. Length: 130–150cm (50–59in). Family Dasypodidae.

World Encyclopedia

armadillo

views updated May 23 2018

armadillo XVI. — Sp., dim. of armado armed man :- L. armātus, pp. of armāre (see ARM2).

The Concise Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology T. F. HOAD

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