babirusa

noun

bab·​i·​ru·​sa ˌba-bə-ˈrü-sə How to pronounce babirusa (audio)
ˌbä-
: a large wild swine (Babyrousa babyrussa) of Indonesia

Examples of babirusa in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This was the first time a babirusa was born at the zoo. Charna Flam, Peoplemag, 4 Jan. 2024 The isolated babirusas will remain out of public display for the next several weeks so the newborn can adapt to its habitat. Charna Flam, Peoplemag, 4 Jan. 2024 An Indonesian swine, the male babirusa has prodigious tusks--formed from upward-growing canine teeth--that resemble antlers. Discover Magazine, 1 Aug. 2012 The jungle-dwelling babirusa is generally docile; its tusks are most likely used to fight off mating competition. Discover Magazine, 1 Aug. 2012

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'babirusa.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Malay, from babi pig + rusa deer

First Known Use

1673, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of babirusa was in 1673

Dictionary Entries Near babirusa

Cite this Entry

“Babirusa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/babirusa. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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