Opossum

əˈpɒs.əm

Meaning & Definition

noun

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.

While walking home at night, I spotted an opossum scavenging through the trash.

A common name for the Virginia opossum, the only marsupial native to North America.

The opossum is known for its ability to feign death as a defense mechanism.

A family of marsupials with 103 known species, primarily found in the Americas.

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

Someone who is playing dead or ignoring a situation to avoid distress.

He's just opossuming his way through that crisis instead of addressing it.

A person who avoids responsibilities.

Stop being such an opossum and take care of your chores.