Possum: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฆก
possum
[ หpษs.ษm ]
animal type
A possum is a nocturnal marsupial native to Australia and nearby islands, distinguished by its pointed face and prehensile tail. They are known for their adaptability to various habitats, ranging from forests to urban areas.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The possum scavenged for food in the backyard.
- We spotted a possum hanging from a tree branch.
- The children were excited to see a possum at the wildlife park.
Translations
Translations of the word "possum" in other languages:
๐ต๐น opossum
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคชเฅเคธเคฎ
๐ฉ๐ช Opossum
๐ฎ๐ฉ opossum
๐บ๐ฆ ะพะฟะพััะผ
๐ต๐ฑ opossum
๐ฏ๐ต ใชใใใตใ
๐ซ๐ท opossum
๐ช๐ธ oposum
๐น๐ท opossum
๐ฐ๐ท ์ฃผ๋จธ๋์ฅ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฃูุจูุณูู
๐จ๐ฟ opossum
๐ธ๐ฐ opossum
๐จ๐ณ ่ด้ผ
๐ธ๐ฎ oposum
๐ฎ๐ธ opossum
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะพะฟะพัััะผ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแกแฃแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ opossum
๐ฒ๐ฝ oposum
Etymology
The word 'possum' comes from the Virginia Algonquin word 'opassom', which means 'white animal'. It was first used in English in the early 17th century to refer specifically to the North American opossum. The term spread to refer more broadly to other marsupials, including those in the family Phalangeridae found in Australia. Over time, 'possum' became a common name for these animals, particularly in Australia, where 'opossum' is less frequently used. The adaptation of the word in English reflects a blending of native languages and colonial influences, marking a part of the rich tapestry of how language evolves as cultures interact.