Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Mole Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🦔
Add to dictionary

mole

[məʊl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal

A small mammal with velvety fur, a pointed snout, and very small eyes. Moles are burrowing animals that live underground and feed on insects.

Synonyms

mole rat, shrew mole.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mole

It could also reference a natural dark spot or growth on human skin formed by pigmented cells.

  • She went to the doctor to check the mole on her shoulder.
  • The mole on his face has been there since birth.
mole rat

This term is used specifically for a family of rodents that live underground, known for their unique and often hairless appearance. They are often discussed in scientific or biological contexts.

  • The naked mole rat is known for its resistance to cancer.
  • Researchers study mole rats to understand longevity and health.
shrew mole

This phrase is used to describe a small insectivorous mammal that has characteristics of both shrews and moles. They are less common and usually referenced in zoological contexts.

  • The shrew mole is smaller and more active on the surface compared to other moles.
  • Shrew moles are found in North America and East Asia.

Examples of usage

  • Moles have strong forelimbs for digging tunnels.
  • They are rarely seen above ground.
  • The mole's fur is adapted for moving through soil.
  • Moles are known for creating intricate tunnel systems.
  • Moles are considered pests in some gardens.
Context #2 | Noun

beauty

A small spot on the skin that is darker than the surrounding area, often considered attractive.

Synonyms

beauty spot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mole

The word 'mole' can be used to refer to a small, burrowing mammal, a small dark skin mark, or a spy within an organization. It can carry a neutral or negative connotation depending on the usage.

  • She has a mole on her shoulder that she's had since birth.
  • The mole in the garden is making a mess of the lawn.
  • The investigation revealed a mole had been feeding secrets to the rival company.
beauty spot

This term is specifically used to describe a mole or dark spot on the skin that is considered attractive. It's often referenced in the context of beauty and personal appearance.

  • Marilyn Monroe is famous for her beauty spot above her lip.
  • She decided to enhance her beauty spot with a bit of makeup.

Examples of usage

  • She had a cute mole on her cheek.
  • Many people find moles charming.
  • Some cultures believe that moles are lucky signs.
Context #3 | Noun

chemistry

A unit of measurement in chemistry representing Avogadro's number, which is approximately 6.022 x 10^23.

Synonyms

molar mass.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mole

'Mole' is also used in a more colloquial or idiomatic sense. In espionage or security contexts, it refers to a spy who infiltrates an organization to gather and transmit secret information.

  • The FBI discovered that there was a mole in the organization leaking confidential information.
  • In many spy movies, the plot often revolves around uncovering a mole.
molar mass

'Molar mass' is specifically used in chemistry to describe the mass of one mole of a given substance, usually measured in grams per mole (g/mol). It helps in understanding reactions and stoichiometry.

  • The molar mass of water (H2O) is approximately 18.015 grams per mole.
  • Knowing the molar mass of a compound is essential for calculating the yield of a chemical reaction.

Examples of usage

  • The concept of a mole is important in stoichiometry.
  • One mole of a substance contains Avogadro's number of particles.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Moles have specialized front paws shaped like shovels to help them dig efficiently in the soil.
  • They can tunnel up to 18 feet in a single day, showcasing their impressive digging speed and strength.
  • Moles have a unique adaptation where they can survive on a diet that primarily consists of earthworms, feeding constantly as worms make up their main food source.

Pop Culture

  • Moles appear in various children's stories, like 'The Wind in the Willows', where Mole is one of the main characters exploring friendship and adventure.
  • In films and cartoons, moles are often portrayed as comical creatures, playing roles that highlight their subterranean antics and interactions with other animals.

Ecology

  • Moles aerate the soil with their tunneling, which helps improve the health of grass and plants above ground.
  • They play a vital role in ecosystems, as their digging activity can bring nutrients to the surface and improve soil structure for other organisms.

Mythology and Folklore

  • In some cultures, moles are seen as symbols of hidden knowledge or secrets due to their underground lifestyle.
  • Folklore often depicts moles as guides to hidden treasures or as creatures involved in underground adventures.

Origin of 'mole'

Main points about word origin

  • The word derives from the Middle English term 'mole', likely borrowed from the Latin 'mole', meaning a 'mass' or 'bulk', referring to their burrowing behavior.
  • In Old English, they were referred to as 'mole' or 'mola', showing a consistent association with their physicality over centuries.

The word 'mole' has Old English origins, coming from the word 'moldwarp' which means earth-thrower. The term 'mole' has been used to refer to the animal since the 14th century. In chemistry, the term 'mole' was introduced in the 18th century by the Italian scientist Amedeo Avogadro.

See also: molar, molecule.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,304 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.