Hamster Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐น
hamster
[หhรฆmstษr ]
Definitions
pet animal
A hamster is a small rodent with a short tail, large cheek pouches, and a soft thick fur. Hamsters are popular as pets because of their friendly and sociable nature.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hamster |
Utilized when referring specifically to the small, burrowing mammal often kept as a pet.
|
| rodent |
Used in a scientific or biological context to refer to animals of the order Rodentia, including hamsters, mice, and rats. It can have a slightly negative connotation when referring to pests.
|
| small mammal |
Best used in a scientific context to describe any variety of small-sized mammals, whether they are pets or wild animals.
|
| pet |
Applicable when speaking generally about any domesticated animal kept for companionship.
|
Examples of usage
- My daughter loves playing with her pet hamster.
- I bought a hamster cage for my new furry friend.
computer science
In computer science, a hamster is a metaphorical term used to describe a programmer who works tirelessly and endlessly, often without taking breaks or resting.
Synonyms
dedicated programmer, hard worker.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hamster |
This word is best used when referring to the small, furry rodent often kept as a pet. It is usually not appropriate in professional or serious contexts unless used metaphorically or humorously.
|
| hard worker |
This phrase is suitable for describing someone who puts a lot of effort into their work in any field. It is a general term that can be used in both positive and appreciative contexts.
|
| dedicated programmer |
This term is ideal when describing someone who is very committed and passionate about programming. It is often used in professional settings to highlight someone's devotion to their work in software development.
|
Examples of usage
- The new intern is a real hamster, always coding late into the night.
- Don't be a hamster, remember to take breaks and relax.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Hamsters are nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night, which is when they prefer to run and explore.
- There are about 18 different species of hamsters, with the golden hamster being the most common as a pet.
- Hamsters have cheek pouches that can stretch to store food, allowing them to transport and hoard supplies.
Cultural Significance
- Hamsters gained popularity in the 1970s as pets, leading to a surge in pop culture references and toys.
- In cartoons and childrenโs shows, hamsters are often depicted as energetic and playful characters, increasing their charm.
- Many scientists have used hamsters in research due to their biological similarities to humans, especially in studies related to health.
Behavior
- These animals are known for their ability to run significant distances on their wheels, which helps them stay healthy.
- Hamsters are territorial and can be aggressive toward each other, making it important to house them separately in captivity.
- They communicate using various sounds, such as squeaks and chirps, and can even grunt when they are pleased.
Care
- Providing a spacious cage with plenty of bedding, toys, and a running wheel is essential for their well-being.
- Hamsters have a lifespan of around 2 to 3 years, so they require loving care for that duration.
- Itโs crucial to ensure that their diet includes fresh fruits, vegetables, and specialty hamster food for balanced nutrition.
Origin of 'hamster'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'hamster' originates from the German word 'hamstern,' meaning to hoard, reflecting their behavior of storing food.
- It's believed the name was first used in English in the early 19th century, borrowing from the German language.
- The term is related to the Middle High German word 'hamstra,' also meaning to store up, indicating the animal's habits.
The word 'hamster' originated from the German word 'Hamster', which means hoarder. Hamsters are known for their habit of storing food in their cheek pouches. The first golden hamster was discovered in Syria in the 1930s and was brought to the United States in 1938. Since then, hamsters have become popular pets around the world.