feral

IPA

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Dictionary definition of feral

Having reverted to a wild or untamed state after having been domesticated or living in close association with humans.
"The feral child had grown up in the wilderness, with no human contact."

Detailed meaning of feral

It is most commonly applied to animals, particularly pets or domesticated species, that have escaped or been abandoned and have adapted to a wild, self-sufficient existence. Feral animals typically exhibit behaviors and characteristics of their wild ancestors, often living independently, hunting for food, and forming social structures within their newfound habitat. The term "feral" underscores the idea of a return to a wild, untamed state and highlights the contrast between the animal's previous domestication and its current, more independent lifestyle. It can also be used metaphorically to describe people or things that have become wild, unruly, or uncontrolled, deviating from societal norms or expectations.

Example sentences containing feral

1. The feral cat hissed and ran away when I tried to approach it.
2. His feral instincts kicked in when he was lost in the wilderness.
3. The feral dog roamed the empty streets, looking for scraps of food.
4. We found a feral kitten hiding under our porch during the rainstorm.
5. Her eyes held a feral intensity that was both scary and fascinating.
6. The feral horses ran freely across the open plains.

History and etymology of feral

The adjective 'feral' finds its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'feralis,' which is related to 'fera,' meaning 'wild animal' or 'beast.' In Latin, 'feralis' referred to anything associated with the dead or funerary rites. Over time, 'feralis' evolved to encompass the concept of something wild, untamed, or pertaining to wild animals. In English, 'feral' is used to describe creatures that have reverted to a wild or untamed state after having been domesticated or living closely with humans. The etymology of 'feral' underscores its historical connection to wild animals, reflecting their natural instincts and behaviors when removed from human influence or domestication.

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Further usage examples of feral

1. With his disheveled hair and feral look, he resembled a wild man.
2. They are rehabilitating the feral cats to prepare them for adoption.
3. The feral child was found living in the forest, surviving on berries and roots.
4. The feral population of pigs in the area is causing environmental damage.
5. He had a feral charm that was hard to resist.
6. The forest was teeming with feral creatures, each living by their own law.
7. After years in captivity, the bear still had a feral quality to it.
8. The feral cats in the neighborhood have become a serious concern.
9. Her paintings captured the feral beauty of the untamed wilderness.
10. The island was overrun by feral goats, causing havoc to the local ecosystem.
11. The feral rabbit population has exploded due to a lack of predators.
12. His survival skills in the jungle revealed his feral side.
13. The feral nature of the wolf was evident in its fierce eyes.
14. The feral gang of kids was known for their mischief in the town.