Procyonid

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A member of the family of mammals that includes raccoons, coatis, and other similar species is known for their adaptability and omnivorous diets
2. The classification encompasses various small to medium-sized mammals like raccoons, recognized for their dexterity and intelligence in foraging activities
3. A diverse group of small to medium-sized mammals, typically characterized by their cunning behavior and varied diets, includes creatures like raccoons and coatis

Etymology: The name of this animal family comes from a star. "Procyon" is Greek for "before the dog," because Procyon, a bright star in Canis Minor, rises shortly before Sirius, the Dog Star. The raccoon genus took the star's name, and the family was named after that genus. The ending "-id" is a standard zoological suffix that marks membership in a family, so a procyonid is any member of the raccoon family. It follows the same pattern as canid and felid, which are formed from the genera "Canis" and "Felis."

Synonyms: raccoon, coati, kinkajou, nasua, ringtail