Search Dictionary
Definition of nine-banded armadillo
nine-banded armadillo
Plural:nine-banded armadillos
nine-banded armadillo Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
6
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A medium-sized species of armadillo native to North, Central, and South America, distinguished by an outer shell of bony plates containing roughly nine articulated bands across its midsection.
Example
"The nine-banded armadillo is known for its ability to jump straight into the air when startled and can often be seen foraging for insects in the early evening."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The name derives from the characteristic nine flexible bands on its armor. 'Armadillo' comes from the Spanish word for 'little armored one'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Nine-banded armadillo. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/nine-banded armadillo