What does to breed like rabbits mean? - briefly
The idiomatic expression "to breed like rabbits" means to reproduce rapidly and frequently. It is used metaphorically to describe human populations or any group that experiences rapid growth due to high fertility rates.
What does to breed like rabbits mean? - in detail
The phrase "to breed like rabbits" is an idiomatic expression that refers to reproducing rapidly and in large numbers, similar to how rabbits are known for their high fertility rates. Rabbits have a gestation period of about 31 days and can give birth to litters of up to 14 young at a time, leading to exponential population growth under favorable conditions. This idiom is often used in a humorous or slightly derogatory manner to describe humans or other animals that reproduce frequently and have many offspring over a short period of time. It can be applied to both individuals and entire populations, highlighting the rapid pace at which they are increasing their numbers. The expression emphasizes the prolific nature of reproduction and is commonly used in discussions about population growth, family planning, or resource allocation.