Hibernation
- Pronunciation
- /hy-bur-NAY-shun/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- Hibernation
- Plural
- Hibernations
Definition
A state of inactivity and metabolic depression in animals during winter, characterized by lower body temperature, slower breathing, and lower metabolic rate.
Etymology
From Latin 'hibernare', meaning 'to spend the winter'.
Example
Certain beetle species enter hibernation during the cold months to conserve energy until favorable conditions return.
Synonyms
- Winter sleep
- Torpor
Related Terms
- Diapause
- Estivation
- Metabolic rate
- Torpor
Usage Notes
While more common in vertebrates, some insects like beetles and certain wasps also enter hibernation-like states to survive the winter.