Entity: WHISKER
A whisker is a thick, bristly hair that grows on an animal's face, commonly found on cats, rats, and other mammals. Whiskers serve as sensory hairs that help animals navigate and perceive their surroundings.
WHISKER
Etymology
The term 'whisker' is derived from the Middle English word 'whisker', meaning a small piece or fragment.
Definition
A whisker refers to a sensory hair growing on the face of a cat, rat, or other mammal, used for navigation and perception.
Historical Context
Whiskers have been a prominent feature of many mammals throughout history, aiding in their survival by providing sensory information about the environment.
Cultural Significance
In various cultures, whiskers have been associated with traits such as wisdom, keen perception, and agility.
Related Concepts
Whiskers are closely related to vibrissae, which are specialized types of hair that serve a sensory function in animals.
See Also
- Vibrissae
- Animal Anatomy
A sensory hair growing on the face of a cat, rat, or other mammal, used for navigation and perception.