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Definitions from WordNet

Definitions from the Web

Geophagy

Definition

Noun: Geophagy refers to the act of ingesting earth or soil-like substances, especially by non-human animals.

Senses

Sense 1:

Noun: A cultural practice of intentional consumption of soil or clay by humans, often for medicinal or nutritional purposes.

Sample Sentence: Geophagy has been observed in various cultures as a traditional practice for centuries.

Sense 2:

Noun: The phenomenon of animals consuming earth, clay, or soil for various reasons, including nutrient supplementation or toxin absorption.

Sample Sentence: Some animals, such as certain species of birds and primates, engage in geophagy to aid digestion or detoxify their bodies.

Usages

Usage 1: Popular

In popular culture, geophagy is often depicted as a bizarre behavior or a dietary disorder.

Sample Sentence: The character in the novel had a strange habit of geophagy, which raised curiosity among the other characters.

Usage 2: Local

In some local communities, geophagy is deeply rooted in their traditions and is considered an important part of their cultural heritage.

Sample Sentence: The indigenous tribe practices geophagy during their annual festival to connect with their ancestors.

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