Meaning & Definition of word "Opossum"
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Opossum
əˈpɒs.əm
noun:
- 1. A nocturnal marsupial of the family Didelphidae that is primarily found in the Americas. They have a prehensile tail and are known for playing dead when threatened.
- Example: While walking home at night, I spotted an opossum scavenging through the trash.
- 2. A common name for the Virginia opossum, the only marsupial native to North America.
- Example: The opossum is known for its ability to feign death as a defense mechanism.
- 3. A family of marsupials with 103 known species, primarily found in the Americas.
- Example: Opossums are sometimes kept as exotic pets, but they can be challenging to care for.
Etymology
From Virginia Algonquian 'aposoum', meaning 'white animal'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
playing possum:
Feigning death or unconsciousness to evade danger.
as useful as a possum in a trash can:
Someone or something that is not very helpful.
Related Words
marsupial:
A class of mammals characterized by giving birth to undeveloped young, which then typically continue development in a pouch.
scavenger:
An animal that feeds on carrion, dead plant material, or refuse.
Slang Meanings of opossum
Meaning: Someone who is playing dead or ignoring a situation to avoid distress.
Example Sentence: He's just opossuming his way through that crisis instead of addressing it.
Meaning: A person who avoids responsibilities.
Example Sentence: Stop being such an opossum and take care of your chores.