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Meerschweinchen

guinea pig

noun MAYR-shvyne-khen Rare
Animals & Nature Pets

Origin: literally 'sea little pig', the 'sea' possibly from the sea voyage that brought them to Europe

Usage Note

Meerschweinchen (Cavia porcellus) is a very common children's pet in Germany, prized for its sociable nature. It should not be kept alone, as it is a herd animal. Plural: die Meerschweinchen.

Examples

"Meerschweinchen müssen immer zu zweit oder in Gruppen gehalten werden."

Natural Translation

Guinea pigs must always be kept in pairs or groups.

Literal Translation

Guinea pigs must always be kept in twos or in groups.

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