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.