Dictionary

muskrat

noun musk·rat \ˈməsk-ˌrat\

: a North American animal that lives in or near water

plural muskrat or muskrats

Full Definition of MUSKRAT

:  an aquatic rodent (Ondatra zibethica) of the United States and Canada with a long scaly laterally compressed tail, webbed hind feet, and dark glossy brown fur; also :  its fur or pelt
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Illustration of MUSKRAT

Origin of MUSKRAT

probably by folk etymology from a word of Algonquian origin; akin to Massachusett musquash muskrat
First Known Use: 1607
MUSKRAT Defined for Kids

muskrat

noun musk·rat \ˈməsk-ˌrat\
plural muskrat or musk·rats

Definition of MUSKRAT for Kids

:  a North American animal that is a rodent living in or near water and having webbed hind feet, a long scaly tail, and glossy usually dark brown fur

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