Porcupine

Definition

A large rodent covered in sharp, barbed spines called quills that serve as defensive weapons. Found across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa, porcupines are slow but well-protected herbivores.

Example Usage

The hiker spotted a porcupine munching bark from a tree along the forest trail.

Origin

From Old French 'porc espin,' meaning 'spiny pig' (from Latin 'porcus' 'pig' + 'spina' 'spine').

Fun Fact

Contrary to myth, porcupines cannot shoot their quills; the spines detach easily when touched and have barbs that lodge in predators' skin.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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