Varmint Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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varmint
[หvษหrmษชnt ]
Definitions
wildlife
An animal considered a pest, especially one that causes damage to crops or livestock.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| varmint |
Duplicate entry. See first entry for details. |
| pest |
Commonly used to describe an animal, insect, or sometimes a person that is disruptive or harmful, often in an everyday or casual context. Frequently refers to insects or small animals.
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| nuisance |
Used to describe something or someone causing inconvenience or annoyance, with a slightly formal tone. It can refer to both people and things.
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| vermin |
Used to describe small animals or insects that are harmful and difficult to control, often in a more formal or serious tone. It can be used with a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- The farmers set traps to catch the varmints destroying their cornfields.
- The varmint population has been increasing in the region, posing a threat to the local ecosystem.
informal
A troublesome or mischievous person, especially a child.
Synonyms
rascal, scoundrel, troublemaker.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| varmint |
Used to describe an animal, usually one that is troublesome or causes damage. Also can refer to a troublesome person in a humorous or old-fashioned way.
|
| rascal |
Refers to a person, especially a child, who behaves mischievously but not with bad intentions. It is often used in a playful or affectionate way.
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| scoundrel |
Describes a person who behaves in a dishonest or disreputable manner. This term has a negative connotation.
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| troublemaker |
Used for a person who habitually causes trouble or problems, often disruptive or unruly behavior. It can be either a mildly negative or neutral term.
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Examples of usage
- Tommy can be a little varmint when he's in a mischievous mood.
- The young varmints were causing chaos in the school playground.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In American folklore, the word is often associated with characters who are mischievous or cunning, reflecting their behavior.
- Animated films frequently depict varmints as characters that cause trouble, like sneaky raccoons or clever squirrels.
- The term has been used in various Western films or cartoons, often illustrating the struggles of ranchers or farmers against these pests.
Literature
- In classic works, the term is used to highlight characters' interactions with nature and the constant struggle against 'nature's nuisances'.
- Authors like Mark Twain referenced varmints to convey themes of survival and the human-animal conflict.
- The portrayal of these creatures can vary, from being entirely villainous to misunderstood characters that reflect societal issues.
Ecology
- While often seen as nuisances, many varmints play important roles in their ecosystems, contributing to the food chain.
- Animals labeled as varmints, like raccoons or squirrels, have adaptive behaviors that allow them to thrive in urban settings.
- Management practices for pest control often highlight the balance of preserving biodiversity while managing pest populations.
Psychology
- The perception of certain animals as 'varmints' reveals human biases towards nature, often leading to fear or intolerance.
- Studies show that people's attitudes toward these creatures can impact wildlife conservation efforts and humane treatment.
- Understanding the role of varmints in human culture can highlight broader themes of coexistence and compassion.
Origin of 'varmint'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the combination of 'vermin' and 'foul', originally referring to small animals that were unwanted.
- It was first used in the early 19th century in the United States, often to describe animals that were pests to crops or livestock.
- Though it primarily indicates nuisance animals, it can also reflect the human feelings toward these creatures.
The word 'varmint' originated from the word 'vermin', which has Old French and Latin roots. Over time, 'varmint' evolved to refer specifically to troublesome animals or people. It has been commonly used in rural and informal contexts to describe pests or mischievous individuals.