wild
Definition
Wild can be defined in a few different ways. In the context of animals, it means not domesticated or tame. This means that the animal has not been bred or raised by humans and is not used to living in close proximity to humans. Wild animals are often found in natural habitats, such as forests, mountains, and deserts.
In the context of plants, wild means not cultivated or planted by humans. This means that the plant has grown naturally in the wild and has not been intentionally planted by humans. Wild plants are often found in natural habitats, such as forests, meadows, and fields.
The word wild can also be used to describe things that are untamed or unruly. For example, we might say that a child is acting wild if they are running around and being noisy. We might also say that a storm is wild if it is very strong and destructive.
How can the word be used?
The wild boar attacked the hunter.
Different forms of the word
Adjective:
- not cultivated or controlled by humans.
- not domesticated.
- untamed or unrestrained.
- uncontrolled or unruly.
Noun:
- a wild animal or plant.
- a wild region.
- a state of untamed or unrestrained behaviour.
Etymology
The word "wild" comes from the Old English word "wilde", which means "uncultivated" or "untamed".
The first recorded use of the word "wild" in English was in the 8th century.
Question
What can be found in the wild?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Discuss the concept of "wild" in the context of biodiversity conservation. Explain the importance of preserving wild habitats and the challenges associated with maintaining biodiversity in the face of human activities.
Answer:
In the realm of biodiversity conservation, the term "wild" pertains to natural ecosystems, habitats, and species that exist without significant human alteration. Preserving these wild elements is vital for maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance.
Wild habitats are crucial for numerous reasons. They serve as havens for diverse plant and animal species, contributing to overall ecosystem health. These habitats provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for wildlife, enabling species to fulfil their ecological roles and contributing to the stability of ecosystems.
However, the growing impact of human activities poses challenges to the preservation of wild habitats and biodiversity. Habitat destruction due to urbanization, deforestation, pollution, and climate change threatens the delicate balance of ecosystems. Invasive species introduced by human activities can also disrupt native species and ecosystems.
Conservation efforts aim to mitigate these challenges by establishing protected areas, implementing sustainable land-use practices, and raising awareness about the importance of preserving wild habitats. Collaborative initiatives involving governments, non-governmental organisations, and local communities are essential for effectively addressing the threats to wild habitats and maintaining biodiversity.