Feral

Adjective

Definition: Existing in a wild or untamed state, especially after being domesticated.

Synonyms: Wild, Untamed, Savage

Antonyms: Domesticated, Tame

Examples:
  • The feral cat hid in the bushes, refusing to come near humans.
  • The feral horse roamed freely in the wilderness, untouched by human intervention.
Mnemonics:
  • "Feral" can be thought of as the opposite of "domesticated."

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "feral" comes from the Latin word "feralis," which means "of or pertaining to a wild beast."

Historical Usage:

The term "feral" has been used in English since the early 17th century to describe animals that have escaped domestication or were born in the wild.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Turn feral"

Explanation:

This phrase is used to describe the act of someone becoming wild, untamed, or unruly in behavior.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Mistaking feral animals for wild animals.

Explanation:

Feral animals differ from wild animals as they were originally domesticated but have returned to a wild state, usually due to abandonment or escape.

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