Meaning & Definition of word "Hamster"

Hamster

/ˈhæm.stər/

1. A small rodent belonging to the family Cricetidae, often kept as a pet or used in laboratory research.
- Example: She decided to get a hamster as a pet for her son.
2. A species of small, burrowing rodent known for its cheek pouches and ability to store food.
- Example: The golden hamster is one of the most popular species kept in homes.
3. A term sometimes used in gaming contexts to describe a character or player who focuses on collecting resources.
- Example: In the game, I often find myself hamstering items instead of completing quests.

Late Middle English, from the German 'Hamster'.

hamster wheel:

A device for pets to exercise, often a circular wheel.

hamster dance:

A type of humorous internet meme involving animated hamsters.

guinea pig:

A similar small rodent often kept as a pet.

gerbil:

Another small rodent often domesticated and kept as a pet.

Meaning: Someone who is always running around or busy.

Example Sentence: He's such a hamster, always on the go.