哺乳類(ほにゅうるい)

哺乳類(ほにゅうるい) is the scientific classification term for mammals. The kanji break down as 哺乳(ほにゅう) (nursing/lactation) + 類(るい) (class/category).

Related classification terms

• 爬虫類(はちゅうるい): reptiles
• 両生類(りょうせいるい): amphibians
• 鳥類(ちょうるい): birds
• 魚類(ぎょるい): fish
• 昆虫(こんちゅう): insects

Common examples

• 犬(いぬ)、猫(ねこ)、熊(くま)、象(ぞう)、イルカ、鯨(くじら)

Usage

A common topic in science classes: 鯨(くじら)は魚(さかな)ではなく哺乳類(ほにゅうるい)だ (whales are mammals, not fish). The term is used in academic and educational contexts.