hamster

ham·ster

noun \ˈham(p)-stər\

Definition of HAMSTER

: any of a subfamily (Cricetinae) of small Old World rodents having very large cheek pouches

Origin of HAMSTER

German, from Old High German hamustro, of Slavic origin; akin to Old Russian choměstorŭ hamster, of Iranian origin; akin to Avestan hamaēstar- oppressor

First Known Use: 1607

ham·ster

noun \ˈham(p)-stər\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of HAMSTER

: any of numerous Old World rodents (Cricetus or a related genus) having very large cheek pouches and including several used as laboratory animals

hamster

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Golden hamster (Mesocricetus auratus).—John Markham

Any of various stout Old World rodents (in the family Muridae) with a short tail, soft fur, and long cheek pouches for carrying food. Hamsters are nocturnal and generally live in burrows; they feed on fruits, grain, and vegetables, though some species also eat insects and other small animals. The common hamster of Europe and western Asia is 8–12 in. (20–30 cm) long, without the 1–2.5-in. (3–6-cm) tail; its coat is brown above and black below, with white patches along each side. The golden hamster of Syria is a popular pet and is widely used as a laboratory animal; it is golden brown with white underparts and 6–8 in. (15–20 cm) long, including the tail.