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What is a "guinea pig"?
The guinea pig, also known as the cavy, is a small domesticated rodent that is often kept as a popular pet. Guinea pigs are native to South America and have been domesticated for thousands of years. They have a compact body with short legs, rounded ears, and no visible tail. Guinea pigs have a variety of coat colors and patterns, and they typically have dense fur that can be short or long, depending on the breed. They have large, expressive eyes and a rounded head with a distinctive snout. Guinea pigs are social animals that are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them popular as pets, especially for children. They are herbivores and primarily eat hay, fresh vegetables, and a specially formulated guinea pig pellet diet.
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What is the origin of the idiom "guinea pig" and when to use it?
The idiom "guinea pig" has its origins in the early 17th century when guinea pigs were first introduced to Europe. These small rodents are not native to Guinea but were imported to Europe via Guinea, a region in West Africa. The exact reason for the association with Guinea remains unclear, but it is believed that European traders may have used the term "Guinea" to refer to any distant or exotic place. Guinea pigs were considered exotic animals when they were first brought to Europe, and the name likely reflects their foreign origin. In modern English, "guinea pig" is used metaphorically to refer to a person or creature used in experiments, tests, or trials to gather information or conduct research, often at some risk to their well-being.
