groundhog

noun

ground·​hog ˈgrau̇n(d)-ˌhȯg How to pronounce groundhog (audio)
-ˌhäg
: woodchuck

Examples of groundhog in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, such as a groundhog, cat, fox, raccoon, skunk or bat. — Bryan Lynn, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026 Bill Murray plays Phil Connors, an irritable, cynical weatherman sent to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, to report a story about the town’s quaint groundhog ceremony. — David Faris, TheWeek, 10 Aug. 2026 Brier also says that if a groundhog does sabotage your home, don’t expect insurance to save you. — Geoff Williams, USA Today, 30 June 2026 Once found only in the Upper and Mid-South, groundhogs (Marmota monax) have expanded their range southward in recent years to central Alabama and northern Mississippi. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for groundhog

Word History

Etymology

ground entry 1 + hog entry 1

First Known Use

1741, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of groundhog was in 1741

Phrases Containing groundhog

Rhymes for groundhog

See All Rhymes for groundhog

Browse Nearby Words

ground hemlock
groundhog
groundhog case
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Groundhog.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/groundhog. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

groundhog

noun
ground·​hog ˈgrau̇nd-ˌhȯg How to pronounce groundhog (audio)
-ˌhäg
: woodchuck

More from Merriam-Webster on groundhog

Nglish: Translation of groundhog for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about groundhog

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