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Definition of cavy

cavy

/ˈkeɪ.vi/
ca · vy
Plural:cavies
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cavy Lexical Profile

cavy Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A domesticated guinea pig, especially in the context of breeding, showing, or keeping as a pet.

Example

"The breeder proudly showcased her champion Abyssinian cavy at the national agricultural exhibition."

2

Any of several stout, short-tailed South American rodents of the family Caviidae, a group that includes wild species like the mara and capybara as well as domesticated varieties.

Example

"The zoologist specialized in the behavior of the wild rock cavy in its native Brazilian habitat."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for cavy

Word Nuance & Usage

While technically referring to any rodent of the family Caviidae, 'cavy' is primarily used by breeders and enthusiasts as a formal synonym for the domesticated guinea pig.

• Rhymes for cavy

• Nearby Words

caving
cavity
cavort
cavy
caw
cawesh
cay

Word Origin & Etymology

Late 18th century: from Modern Latin 'Cavia', derived from Portuguese 'çávia', which traces back to the Old Tupi word 'saujá' meaning 'rat'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Cavy. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 6, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/cavy
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