black-footed ferret

noun

: a rare weasel (Mustela nigripes) of western North American prairies having a yellowish coat, dark feet and facial mask, and a dark-tipped tail

Illustration of black-footed ferret

Examples of black-footed ferret in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This represents a significant step in safeguarding the future of black-footed ferrets and overcoming the genetic challenges that have hindered recovery efforts. —David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024

But others, like the black-footed ferret, Houston toad and the red wolf, for example, remain endangered—even after almost 60 years of federal attention. —Christine Peterson, Wired News, 5 July 2025

But others, like the black-footed ferret, Houston toad and the red wolf, for example, remain endangered — even after almost 60 years of federal attention. —Christine Peterson, Vox, 27 June 2025

With ongoing reintroduction efforts in Arizona, Colorado and Montana, and innovative approaches like genetic cloning, the future looks promising for the black-footed ferret. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for black-footed ferret

• buret
• carat
• garret
• karat
• merit
• parrot
• demerit
• inherit
• preterit
• disinherit

Kids Definition

black-footed ferret

noun

black-foot·​ed ferret

ˈblak-ˌfu̇t-əd-

: an endangered weasel of western North American prairies having a yellowish coat, black feet and face markings, and a black-tipped tail