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Definition of orangutan

orangutan

/ɔːˈræŋ.əˌtæn/
o · rang · u · tan
Plural:orangutans
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orangutan Lexical Profile

orangutan Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A large, critically endangered great ape native to the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra in Southeast Asia, characterized by its reddish-brown hair, long arms, and highly intelligent, largely arboreal lifestyle.

Example

"The researchers set up cameras in the Bornean canopy to study the feeding habits of the elusive orangutan."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for orangutan

• Nearby Words

orange river
orange roughy
orangequat
orangutan
orca
orchardgrass
orchestra

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Malay and Indonesian words 'orang' (person) and 'hutan' (forest), literally translating to 'person of the forest'. The term entered European languages, including English, in the late 17th century.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Orangutan. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/orangutan
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