Carnivora

[ kahr-niv-er-uh ]

noun

1. the order of placental mammals comprising the carnivorans and noted for much diversity in habitats, sizes of species, and diets: divided into two suborders, Caniformia (dogs and doglike species) and Feliformia (cats and catlike species).

Word History and Origins

Origin of Carnivora¹

First recorded in 1820–30; from New Latin, Latin carnivora (animālia) “meat-eating (animals),” neuter plural of carnivorus carnivorous

Example Sentences

Yet it is clear that both the graminivora and the carnivora were made to effect this apparent wrong.

From Project Gutenberg

Their mouth is armed, in fact, with canine teeth comparable to those of the most powerful Carnivora.

From Project Gutenberg

Among those Carnivora which are able to accommodate themselves to the severest climates, I may mention the Foxes.

From Project Gutenberg

If caught in their youth they are easily tamed, and display a greater intelligence than any of the other carnivora.

From Project Gutenberg

Felid, animals of the cat kind, a family of Carnivora in which the predaceous instincts reach their highest development.

From Project Gutenberg