cavy
cavy Lexical Profile
cavy Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A domesticated guinea pig, especially in the context of breeding, showing, or keeping as a pet.
"The breeder proudly showcased her champion Abyssinian cavy at the national agricultural exhibition."
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.
"The zoologist specialized in the behavior of the wild rock cavy in its native Brazilian habitat."
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
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.