1. a large African mammal with thick skin, short legs, and a massive head that spends much of its time in water

Examples

• The hippopotamus is one of the most dangerous animals in Africa.
• We watched a hippopotamus emerge from the muddy river.
• A hippopotamus can weigh up to 4,000 pounds.
• The zoo’s hippopotamus loves to swim in its large pool.
• Despite their bulky appearance, hippopotamuses can run surprisingly fast on land.
• The mother hippopotamus protects her calf from crocodiles.