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Hippopotamus


n.

A large, amphibious, herbivorous mammal ( Hippopotamus amphibius ), common in the rivers of tropical Africa. It is allied to the hogs, and has a very thick, naked skin, a thick and square head, a very large muzzle, small eyes and ears, thick and heavy body, and short legs. It is supposed to be the behemoth of the Bible. Called also zeekoe , and river horse . A smaller species ( Hippopotamus Liberiencis ) inhabits Western Africa.


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