Why does catnip make cats go crazy? - Jaap de Roode
TED-Ed • 2026-06-04T15:01:03Z • 5:00:00 • intermediate • Science
Lead
Have you ever wondered why your cat goes wild for catnip? Discover the fascinating science behind this quirky feline behavior!
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Vocabulary
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bewildering
/bɪˈwɪldərɪŋ/
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Definition
causing confusion or puzzlement; difficult to understand.
Example
The magician's tricks were so bewildering that the audience was left in awe.
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euphoria
/juˈfɔriə/
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Definition
a feeling or state of intense excitement and happiness.
Example
Winning the championship filled the team with euphoria that lasted for days.
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painstakingly
/ˈpeɪnˌsteɪkɪŋli/
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Definition
with great care and thoroughness.
Example
She painstakingly edited her manuscript to ensure there were no errors.
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iridoid
/ˈɪrɪˌdɔɪd/
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Definition
a type of natural compound often found in plants that can have various biological activities.
Example
Researchers are studying iridoids for their potential medicinal properties.
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repelling
/rɪˈpɛlɪŋ/
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Definition
causing someone or something to move away or to be kept away.
Example
The repelling odor of the skunk made everyone cover their noses.
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evolutionary
/ˌɛvəˈluːʃənɛri/
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Definition
relating to the gradual development of something, especially from a simple to a more complex form.
Example
The evolutionary changes in the species were evident over several generations.
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