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Squirrels Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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squirrels

[ˈskwɜːrəlz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

animal

Squirrels are small to medium-sized rodents with long bushy tails. They are known for their quick and agile movements, as well as their ability to climb trees with ease. Squirrels are commonly found in parks, forests, and urban areas.

Synonyms

chipmunk, rodent, tree-dweller.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
squirrels

Squirrels are typically mentioned when referring to common tree-dwelling mammals known for their bushy tails and activities such as gathering acorns or nuts. They are often seen in parks or wooded areas.

  • I saw a few squirrels gathering acorns in the park
  • Squirrels are quick climbers and use their tails for balance
rodent

Rodent is a broader term that can refer to any member of the rodent family, including mice, rats, squirrels, and chipmunks. This term is often used in scientific or general contexts to discuss various species within this group.

  • Rats are one of the most common rodents in urban areas
  • Many rodents have strong, continuously growing teeth that help them gnaw through tough materials
chipmunk

Chipmunks are usually mentioned in contexts involving small, striped rodents that live on the ground and are known for storing food in their cheek pouches.

  • A chipmunk scurried across the garden
  • During autumn, chipmunks collect seeds and nuts to prepare for winter
tree-dweller

Tree-dweller is a general term to describe any animal that primarily lives in trees. This can include squirrels, certain birds, and even some monkeys. It is often used in ecological or biological discussions.

  • Koalas are unique tree-dwellers found in Australia
  • The forest is home to many tree-dwellers, creating a diverse ecosystem

Examples of usage

  • I saw a squirrel running across the park.
  • The squirrel quickly climbed up the tree to escape the danger.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Behavior

  • Squirrels have a unique method for finding their food: they bury nuts and seeds, which they later dig up, often forgetting where they hid many of them.
  • These animals have excellent memory skills, allowing them to locate food by smell and recognize landmarks.

Habitat

  • Squirrels are found all over the world, except in Australia and Antarctica, adapting to various environments from forests to cities.
  • While most people think of tree squirrels, there are also ground squirrels and flying squirrels, showcasing diverse adaptations.

Pop Culture

  • Squirrels have become popular characters in animated films, such as Scrat from 'Ice Age,' known for his obsession with acorns.
  • In American folklore, squirrels often symbolize preparation and resourcefulness, especially during the fall season.

Ecology

  • Squirrels play a crucial role in their ecosystems by aiding in forest regeneration, as they help to disperse seeds.
  • Some types of squirrels, like the Eastern gray squirrel, are known to adapt easily to urban environments, showcasing resilience.

Origin of 'squirrels'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'squirrel' comes from the Old French word 'esquirel' which means 'little shadowed tail'.
  • In Latin, the term 'sciurus' refers to the squirrel, combining 'skia' (meaning shadow) and 'oura' (meaning tail).

The word 'squirrel' originated from the ancient Greek word 'skiouros,' which means 'shadow-tailed.' Squirrels have been depicted in art and literature throughout history, often symbolizing agility, resourcefulness, and adaptability. They are a common sight in many cultures and are often associated with nature and the changing seasons.

See also: squirrel.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,414, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.