tusk
1 of 2nouneach of the curved pointy teeth of some animals such as elephants, boars, etc., especially one that stands out from the closed mouth
C1Learn more on WikipediaA tusk is a long, pointed, and often curved tooth that protrudes from the mouth of certain animals, most notably elephants, walruses, and narwhals. These elongated teeth are typically made of ivory, a dense and durable material. Tusks serve various purposes depending on the species. They can be used for defense, digging, gathering food, or as a display of dominance during mating rituals. The size and shape of tusks can vary greatly between species and even individuals, with some reaching impressive lengths. Tusks are iconic features of these animals and hold cultural and historical significance.
- The elephant displayed its majestic tusks, gleaming in the sunlight as it roamed the savanna.
- The poacher crept through the underbrush, his eyes fixed greedily on the elephant's prized tusks.
- With a gentle nudge, the elephant used its tusks to help a fallen companion back onto its feet.
- The walrus used its long tusks to pry open shellfish, revealing the succulent meat inside.
- The tusks of the narwhal, often mistaken for unicorn horns, have inspired myths and legends for centuries.
the hard, smooth, ivory-colored dentine that forms the main substance of elephant and walrus tusks
- Ivory is harvested from elephant tusks.
- The walrus's tusk consists mostly of dentine.
- The tusk's ivory is highly valued in art and decoration.
- Elephant tusks are made of a dense, smooth material.
- Poachers target tusks for their durable ivory.