rhino

word

/ˈɹaɪˌnoʊ/
/ɹˈaɪnəʊ/

Definition

An informal short form of 'rhinoceros,' a large, thick-skinned herbivorous mammal with one or two horns on its snout. Found in Africa and Asia, several species are critically endangered.

Usage & Nuances

The informal 'rhino' is far more common in everyday speech and writing than the full 'rhinoceros.' Plural: 'rhinos.' Common collocations: 'white rhino,' 'black rhino,' 'rhino horn,' 'rhino poaching.' In British slang (dated), 'rhino' can also mean money, but this usage is rare today.

Example Sentences

The white rhino is one of the largest land animals in the world.

basic

Poachers hunt rhinos for their horns, which are sold illegally.

basic

We saw a rhino at the zoo for the first time.

basic

There's a baby rhino at the sanctuary — it's absolutely adorable and follows the keepers around.

natural

I'd love to go on safari and see a rhino in the wild before they're all gone.

natural

That rhino charged straight at the jeep — scariest moment of the entire trip.

natural