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tenrec

noun
ten·​rec | \ ˈten-ËŒrek How to pronounce tenrec (audio) \

Definition of tenrec

: any of numerous small often spiny mammalian insectivores (family Tenrecidae) chiefly of Madagascar

Examples of tenrec in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 The tailless tenrec of Madagascar has litters of up to 32, according to the IUCN, while the naked mole rat has an average of 28. — Liz Langley, National Geographic, "These Animals Spawn the Most Offspring in One Go," 8 Apr. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'tenrec.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of tenrec

circa 1785, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for tenrec

French, from Malagasy tàndraka

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More from Merriam-Webster on tenrec

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with tenrec

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about tenrec

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