A flightless seabird found in the Southern Hemisphere, especially Antarctica.

Origin: The word 'penguin' was first recorded in the late 16th century and was initially used to refer to the now-extinct great auk of the North Atlantic. Its origin is uncertain, but it is believed to derive from the Welsh 'pen gwyn,' meaning 'white head,' possibly referring to the great auk's appearance. Historical and Cultural Context: The term was applied to the flightless birds of the Southern Hemisphere when European explorers encountered them, as the birds reminded them of the great auk. The first recorded use of 'penguin' in reference to these Antarctic birds dates to the 18th century. Evolution: Over time, the word 'penguin' became exclusively associated with the Southern Hemisphere birds, especially after the extinction of the great auk in the mid-19th century. The term has no cognates in other languages, as it is a unique borrowing. Modern Relevance: Today, 'penguin' refers to any of the 18-20 species of these birds, known for their upright posture and distinctive black and white plumage. Penguins have become cultural icons, featured in literature, film, and environmental conservation efforts.

Despite their association with cold climates, some penguin species live in temperate zones, such as the Galápagos penguin, which resides near the equator.