Critter: meaning, definitions and examples

Question

Accepted Answer

Word	Description / Examples
critter	This word is often used informally and affectionately, usually in rural areas or in a country setting. It can refer to small animals or bugs. Look at that little critter scurrying across the yard. There are some critters getting into the garden.
animal	This is the most general and neutral term, suitable for any context where you need to refer to a living being that is not a human. It's often used in scientific, educational, and everyday settings. The zoo has a wide variety of animals. Please do not feed the animals.
creature	This term is somewhat formal and can be used in literary or fantasy contexts. It often refers to strange or unknown beings and can also be neutral or affectionate, depending on the context. The forest is home to many mysterious creatures. He's a kind-hearted creature despite his frightening appearance.
beast	This word is used to describe large or ferocious animals and often has a negative or dramatic connotation. It is sometimes used in storytelling or to emphasize the wild nature of an animal. The dragon is a fearsome beast. Hunters set out to capture the beast that had been terrorizing the village.
varmint	This is a colloquial term, primarily used in rural or country settings. It has a negative connotation and usually refers to pests or troublesome small animals. Those varmints keep digging up my vegetables. The farmer was always finding ways to keep varmints out of his barn.

Definition