Main Entry: hedge·hog

Pronunciation: \ˈhej-ˌhȯg, -ˌhäg\

Function: noun

Date: 15th century

1 a : any of a subfamily (Erinaceinae) of Eurasian and African nocturnal insectivores that have both hair and spines which they present outwardly by rolling themselves up when threatened b : any of several spiny mammals (as a porcupine)
2 a : a military defensive obstacle (as of barbed wire) b : a well-fortified military stronghold

[hedgehog illustration]