A Bunny is NOT a rabbit! Wait, what? Yes, if you use these two terms interchangeably, you are in for a surprise read about the fundamental differences between these two.
I remember my childhood days referring to every cute toy as the bunny, as it just seemed right to fit the innocence and cuteness of those plushies. When I grew a little older, I thought that no, bunnies are actually these cutest creatures that are hopping in my backyard. This journey for the actual truth ended some time ago when I suddenly came across a lovely bunny vs rabbit page. The sweetest debate on that topic not only relaxed my mind but also refreshed the priceless memories of my little years.
If you are a fan of sweet reads and curious to know what the history behind bunny vs rabbit actually entails, we dedicate this writing to you. Read on and recall the days when every giggle holds pure joy and innocence.
The Bunny
Let’s first explore the word bunny. Bunny is a colloquial term often used for rabbits in an affectionate way. Many people also call bunnies to small rabbits only. When you explore a plushies shop, you also hear bunny for a cute toy. Similarly, the easter bunny, Peter Rabbit, Bugs Bunny, thumper and more are all refer as bunnies in both the children’s and adults’ worlds.
But have you ever wondered why it seems accurate to call these rabbit-like characters or toys bunnies? What I have concluded is that we have associated the term bunny with soft, charming and cuddly; hence, we instantly title anything that fulfils these characteristics as Bunny.
If we look at the origin of the word Bunny, we find that it came from the word Bun, which means squirrel in old English. The term evolved over time and became a nickname for rabbits. From there, it transitioned further, and every plushy or adorable-looking thing was now Bunny.
This dive into the word Bunny at least clears that we may love the term how much we want, but it has no basis or recognition as a proper name for rabbits.
The Rabbit
Contrary to the Bunny, the rabbit is a proper term for the animals of the Leporidae family. They are categorized as mammals and feature characteristics like long ears, small size, short fluffy tails, and strong hind legs. They live in both wild and domestic places.
These creatures are quiet and innocent in nature. They live in strong social bonds and exhibit various behaviors. When in the wild, rabbits live underground by burrowing holes while in domestic, they are pets.
Scientists and researchers use rabbits as a term in their work for both big and small ones.
The exploration behind the word Rabbit clears its position as a proper and recognized in the academic and research circles, further eliminating the Bunny from the list.
Then Why Rabbit Is A Bunny?
The debate on bunny vs rabbit has come to the point where we are trying to assess if bunny has no logical basis to be used as a name for the rabbit, then why is it used that widely for our affordable friends? Let’s get into more sweetness.
The explanation behind this lovely misunderstanding entails only one fact — we are rabbit lovers and would love to call it as many names as our love goes to fit its cuteness and adorability. Although it is not a scientifically accepted term or even lacks strong linguistic roots, we would still use it to show the love we have for these tailed and charming friends.
The Verdict
So, what does the verdict of the bunny vs rabbit showdown says? Does the debate really distinguish one from the other? You may find it hard, but yes, Bunny is not a proper term for Rabbit, and in formal cases, you have to follow what is suggested by the standards.
Having said that, it is also worth mentioning that Bunny is closer and dear to our hearts, encompassing the true innocence and charm deserving of these cute creatures, and hence, we are free to Bunny the Rabbit. The playful, cuddly, and bouncy nature of these animals can never be justified by anyother word than Bunny. So, Bunny it and let the joy be sunny it!
