What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vibrissa
Example
The cat's vibrissae twitched as it sniffed the air. [vibrissae: plural noun]
Example
Rats use their vibrissae to navigate in the dark. [vibrissae: plural noun]
whisker
Example
The cat's whiskers twitched as it watched the bird outside. [whiskers: plural noun]
Example
The mouse's whiskers helped it navigate through the maze. [whiskers: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Whiskers is a more commonly used term than vibrissae in everyday language, as it is a more general term that covers a wider range of animals. Vibrissae is a more technical term used mainly in scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between vibrissa and whisker?
Vibrissae is a more formal term than whiskers, as it is a technical term used mainly in scientific contexts. Whiskers is a more informal term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
