Otter: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿฆฆ
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otter

 

[ หˆษ’tษ™r ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

cute animal

An otter is a semiaquatic mammal that belongs to the family Mustelidae, which also includes weasels, badgers, and minks. Otters are known for their playful behavior, streamlined bodies, webbed feet, and thick fur that keeps them warm in cold water.

Synonyms

river otter, sea otter, water weasel.

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Word Description / Examples
otter

A general term used to refer to any species within the otter family.

  • Otters are known for their playful behavior
  • The otter swam gracefully in the river
water weasel

An informal or less common term for otters, often used in a colloquial or less scientific context. Can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation.

  • Kids were excited to spot a 'water weasel' near the pond
  • 'Look at that water weasel!' the hiker exclaimed, watching the otter play
river otter

Specifically refers to otters that mostly live in freshwater rivers and streams.

  • The North American river otter is often found in lakes, rivers, and wetlands
  • A river otter was spotted fishing near the brook
sea otter

Refers to otters that mostly live in marine environments, particularly along the coasts of the Pacific Ocean.

  • Sea otters are known for using tools to open shellfish
  • A group of sea otters floated together in the kelp beds

Examples of usage

  • They spotted an otter playing in the river.
  • The otter used its webbed feet to swim gracefully.
Context #2 | Noun

slang

In some regions, otter is a slang term used to describe a gay man who is hairy and has a slim build. This usage of the word originated in the LGBTQ+ community and is considered offensive by some.

Synonyms

hairy gay man, slim gay man.

Examples of usage

  • He's been called an otter because of his appearance.
  • Some people proudly identify as otters within the gay community.

Translations

Translations of the word "otter" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น lontra

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคŠเคฆเคฌเคฟเคฒเคพเคต

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Otter

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ berang-berang

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฒะธะดั€ะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ wydra

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใ‚ซใƒฏใ‚ฆใ‚ฝ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท loutre

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ nutria

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท su samuru

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ˆ˜๋‹ฌ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู‚ุถุงุนุฉ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ vydra

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ vydra

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆฐด็ญ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ vidra

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ otur

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ า›าฑะฝะดั‹ะท

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒฌแƒแƒ•แƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ sualtฤฑ

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ nutria

Etymology

The word 'otter' originated from the Old English word 'otor' and can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root 'udros', meaning 'water animal'. Otters have been featured in various mythologies and folklore, often symbolizing playfulness, cleverness, and adaptability. They are also known for their significant role in the ecosystem by maintaining a balance in aquatic environments.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,208, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.