Hippopotamus amphibius

Hippopotamus Hip`po*pot"a*mus, n.; pl. E. {Hippopotamuses}, L. {Hippopotami}. [L., from Gr.?; "i`ppos horse + ? river. Cf. {Equine}.] (Zo["o]l.) 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. [1913 Webster]