muskrat

noun

musk·​rat ˈməsk-ˌrat How to pronounce muskrat (audio)
plural muskrat or muskrats
: an aquatic rodent (Ondatra zibethicus) of the U.S. and Canada with a long scaly laterally compressed tail, webbed hind feet, and dark glossy brown fur
also : its fur or pelt

Illustration of muskrat

Illustration of muskrat

Examples of muskrat in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The researchers also analyzed several other species raised for fur, meat, and medicinal purposes, including deer, muskrats, guinea pigs, rabbits, and badgers. Byjon Cohen, science.org, 5 Sep. 2024 Mink are semi-aquatic carnivores that eat muskrat, fish, reptiles, amphibians, waterfowl, eggs and small mammals like mice, according to the DNR. Angelika Ytuarte, Journal Sentinel, 25 July 2024 There are also coyotes at the park, though Sweet said these aren’t as common to see, but there are mink, beaver and muskrats that can be seen along Fall Creek and near Duck Pond. Karl Schneider, The Indianapolis Star, 28 June 2024 That said, muskrats are actually more closely related to woodland mice, Albers said. Sarah Bowman, The Indianapolis Star, 17 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for muskrat 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'muskrat.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

probably by folk etymology from a word of Algonquian origin; akin to Massachusett musquash muskrat

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of muskrat was in 1607

Dictionary Entries Near muskrat

Cite this Entry

“Muskrat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/muskrat. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

muskrat

noun
musk·​rat ˈməs-ˌkrat How to pronounce muskrat (audio)
plural muskrat or muskrats
: a North American rodent that lives in or near the water, has a long scaly tail and webbed hind feet, and glossy usually dark brown fur
also : its fur or pelt

More from Merriam-Webster on muskrat

Last Updated: - Definition revised
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!