pachyderm
UK[ˈpæk.ɪ.dɜːm]US[ˈpæk.ɪ.dɝːm]
n
A very large mammal with thick skin, especially an elephant, rhinoceros, or hippopotamus.
n
A person who is not sensitive to criticism, ridicule, or subtle influences.
Morpheme Breakdown
pachy
derm
pachy
thick
derm
skin
Etymology
The word pachyderm is a modern scientific term constructed directly from Greek elements in the early 19th century. It literally translates to "thick-skinned," formed from pachys (thick) and derma (skin). It was originally used in biological taxonomy to group large, thick-skinned, hoofed mammals like elephants and rhinoceroses. While this taxonomic classification is now obsolete, the word persists in common usage, retaining its literal descriptive meaning for animals and evolving a figurative sense for an insensitive person.
Analysis
Structure: pachy (thick) + derm (skin)
pachy (from Greek pachys, meaning thick or dense; functions as a combining form). derm (from Greek derma, meaning skin; functions as a combining form).
Examples
The elephant, a classic pachyderm, uses its trunk for both feeding and communication.
The zoo's new exhibit features several species of pachyderm.
He had developed a pachyderm's hide after years in the harsh world of politics.