What does LEMUR mean?

Parts of Speech

Noun

Definitions

1. A small, nocturnal, tree-dwelling primate native to Madagascar, characterized by large eyes, a pointed snout, and a long tail.
2. Any of various strepsirrhine primates, such as the aye-aye, bushbaby, or indris, native to Madagascar and adjacent islands.

Pronunciations

• US: /ˈliːmər/
• UK: /ˈliːmə/

Origin and Usage

The word "lemur" comes from the Latin word "lemures," which means "spirits of the dead." The name was given to these primates by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century because of their nocturnal habits and ghostly appearance. Lemurs are found only on the island of Madagascar and nearby islands. They are threatened by habitat loss and hunting.

Synonyms

Nocturnal primate, bushbaby, aye-aye, indris

Related Words

Madam, llama, maple, camel, lemon

Example Sentences

• The lemur is one of the most endangered primates in the world.
• Lemurs are unique to Madagascar and are found nowhere else in the world.
• The aye-aye is a type of lemur known for its long, thin fingers.