lusus naturae
Derived from Latin, "lusus naturae" translates to "freak of nature" and is used to describe entities or phenomena that deviate significantly from the norm.
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Definition
C2Biology
(technical, historical)An organism exhibiting significant deviation from typical forms, often seen as a result of nature's capriciousness.
Example
- The two-headed snake was considered a lusus naturae by early naturalists.
C2Mythology
(literary, fictional)A creature or phenomenon that is extraordinarily unusual or monstrous, often found in myths or stories.
Example
- The cyclops in Greek mythology is a classic example of a lusus naturae.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "lusus naturae":