proboscidean

or pro·bos·cid·i·an

[ proh-buh-sid-ee-uh n, -bo-, proh-bos-i-dee-uh n ]

/ ˌproʊ bəˈsɪd i ən, -bɒ-, proʊˌbɒs ɪˈdi ən /

adjective

pertaining to or resembling a proboscis.

having a proboscis.

belonging or pertaining to the mammals of the order Proboscidea, characterized by a flexible trunk formed of the nostrils and upper lip, large tusks, a massive body, and columnar legs, comprising the elephant and the now-extinct mammoth and mastodon.

noun

a proboscidean animal.

Nearby words

problem-oriented record, problematic, problematical, problematics, proboscidate, proboscidean, proboscis, proboscis monkey, probusiness, proc., procaine

Origin of proboscidean

1825–35; < New Latin Proboscide(a) order name (Latin proboscid- (stem of proboscis proboscis) + -ea, neuter plural of -eus adj. suffix; see -eous) + -an

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for proboscidean

Falconer does not allow for the Proboscidean group being a failing one, and therefore not likely to be giving off new races.
The Life and Letters of Charles Darwin, Volume II (of II)|Charles Darwin

British Dictionary definitions for proboscidean

proboscidean

proboscidian

/ (ˌprəʊbɒˈsɪdɪən) /

adjective

of, relating to, or belonging to the Proboscidea, an order of massive herbivorous placental mammals having tusks and a long trunk: contains the elephants

noun

any proboscidean animal

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Science definitions for proboscidean

proboscidean

Any of various mammals of the order Proboscidea, having a long trunk, large tusks, and a massive body. The elephants and its extinct relatives, such as the mastodons, are proboscidians.

Of or belonging to the order Proboscidea.