Meaning & Definition of word "Squirrel"
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Squirrel
/ˈskwɜːrəl/
noun:
- 1. A small to medium-sized rodent of the family Sciuridae, typically having a bushy tail and known for its agility in climbing trees.
- Example: The squirrel scampered up the tree, its fluffy tail trailing behind.
- 2. A person who is overly concerned with money, often used in a derogatory context.
- Example: Ever since he got the promotion, he's turned into a real squirrel, hoarding every dollar.
verb:
- 1. To store away or hide something for future use, often used in the context of saving money.
- Example: She likes to squirrel away a portion of her paycheck for emergencies.
Etymology
From Middle English 'squirel', derived from Old French 'esquireul', from Vulgar Latin 'sciuriculus', diminutive of Latin 'sciurus'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
squirrel away:
To save money or resources for future use.
squirrelly:
Nervous or fidgety; acting in a peculiar manner.
Related Words
rodent:
A gnawing mammal of the order Rodentia, characterized by a single pair of constantly growing incisors in each of the upper and lower jaws.
forage:
To search for and gather food, often used in the context of animals.
Slang Meanings of squirrel
Meaning: A person who is overly cautious or saves excessively.
Example Sentence: Don't be such a squirrel; spend some of that cash!
Meaning: To hide something away.
Example Sentence: He squirrels away his snacks for later.