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.

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

Example sentences from the Web for proboscidean

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

Scientific 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.