beaver

noun bea·ver \ ˈbē-vər \

Definition of beaver

plural beavers

1 or plural beaver

a : either of two large semiaquatic herbivorous rodents comprising a family (Castoridae including Castor canadensis of North America and C. fiber of Eurasia), having webbed hind feet and a broad flat scaly tail, and constructing dams and partially submerged lodges

b : the fur or pelt of the beaver

2 a : a hat made of beaver fur or a fabric imitation

b : silk hat

3 : a heavy fabric of felted wool or of cotton napped on both sides

4 usually vulgar : the pudenda of a woman

Origin and Etymology of beaver

Middle English bever, from Old English beofor; akin to Old High German bibar beaver, and probably to Old English brūn brown — more at brown

First Known Use: before 12th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1

beaver

noun

Definition of beaver

1 : a piece of armor protecting the lower part of the face

2 : a helmet visor

Illustration of beaver

Origin and Etymology of beaver

Middle English baviere, from Middle French

First Known Use: 15th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1

beaver

verb

Definition of beaver

beavered; beavering; beavers

intransitive verb

: to work energetically

beavering away at the problem

See beaver defined for English-language learners

Beaver

geographical name Bea·ver \ ˈbē-vər \

Definition of Beaver

1 river 280 miles (451 kilometers) long in northwestern Oklahoma forming the upper course of the North Canadian River

2 river 305 miles (491 kilometers) long Canada in Alberta and Saskatchewan flowing east into the Churchill River

BEAVER Defined for Kids

beaver

noun bea·ver \ ˈbē-vər \

Definition of beaver for Students

: an animal that has thick brown fur, webbed hind feet, and a broad flat tail, that cuts down trees with its teeth, and that builds dams and houses of sticks and mud in water