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Silverback - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A silverback is a mature male gorilla, typically over 12 years old, distinguished by the silver-gray hair on its back. It leads and protects the gorilla group.

silverback

/ˈsɪlvɚˌbæk/ /ˈsɪlvəˌbæk/

Definition:

A mature male gorilla with gray or silver hair on its back, leading a group.

Synonyms:

alpha male, dominant gorilla, leader

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

juvenile, female gorilla

Common Collocations:

dominant silverback, silverback gorilla, protect the group, lead the troop

Derivatives:

silverbacks (plural)

Usage Tips:

Use "silverback" to refer specifically to the dominant male in a gorilla group, not just any adult male gorilla.

Common Phrases:

king of the jungle, leader of the pack, alpha of the troop

Etymology:

Derived from "silver" (referring to the gray hair) + "back" (the area where it appears).

Examples:

  • 1. The silverback protects his family from threats.
  • 2. We saw a huge silverback at the zoo yesterday.
  • 3. The young gorillas follow the silverback’s lead.
  • 4. A silverback’s strength keeps the group safe.

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