Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
estivate
Verb
/ˈɛstɪveɪt/
Definition
To spend a prolonged period at rest or in a dormant state, typically occurring during a hot or dry season.
Examples
- The tortoises will estivate during the hot summer months to avoid heat stress.
- Some species of frogs estivate to survive dry seasons.
Meaning
Estivate refers to the behavior of certain animals that sleep or become inactive during the hot and dry months to conserve energy and moisture. It is akin to hibernation, which occurs in the cold months.
Synonyms
- Sleep
- Hibernate
- Doze
