What does lagomorph mean?
A lagomorph is any member of the mammalian order Lagomorpha, the group that includes rabbits, hares, and pikas. The word is most common in zoology, ecology, wildlife management, and discussions of animal biology. Although a lagomorph may be informally understood as a rabbit or hare, the term is more precise and comprehensive because it identifies an entire taxonomic order rather than a single animal or species. Lagomorphs are often confused with rodents because many have prominent front teeth, burrowing habits, and similar body plans, but they are a distinct group. The word can sound formal or specialized, yet it remains useful when discussing wildlife, conservation, evolution, or comparative anatomy. Its unusual name also reflects its characteristic form: the term ultimately refers to a hare-shaped animal.
nounA lagomorph is a mammal belonging to the order Lagomorpha, which includes rabbits, hares, and pikas. The term is especially common in zoology and wildlife biology.
- A mammal of the order Lagomorpha, including rabbits, hares, and pikas.
"The mountain hare is a lagomorph adapted to cold, open environments."
"Researchers tracked the health of the island's lagomorph population."
"The zoo houses several species of lagomorph, including rabbits and pikas."
The standard plural adds -s.
"Native lagomorphs are found throughout the region."
Despite their prominent teeth and burrowing habits, lagomorphs are not rodents: rabbits, hares, and pikas belong to a separate mammalian order.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lagomorph come from?
The word comes from Greek, combining λαγός (lagos), meaning “hare,” with μορφή (morphē), meaning “form” or “shape.” The resulting Greek term meant “hare-shaped” and was adopted into English as a zoological designation for the order containing rabbits, hares, and pikas. Its use is based on the broader Greek roots associated with hare, shape, and form, including the English words morph and morphology.
Related word forms
How lagomorph is actually used
This is primarily a formal zoological term. In general writing it may refer broadly to rabbits and hares, but its strict meaning includes pikas as well.