hamster

noun

ham·​ster ˈham(p)-stər 

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

Examples of hamster in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As is his wont, Nile revels in torturing Aggie, like a mean kid torturing a hamster. —Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 14 Nov. 2025

Even the tamer shows are cause for concern, like Spin the Wheel, which puts quiz contestants in a large hamster wheel that accelerates with every incorrect answer, resulting in injuries or worse. —David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 11 Nov. 2025

Think giant inflatable hamster balls and a massive slingshot for flinging Christmas presents. —Kristen Baldwin, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Nov. 2025

This 2025 holiday gift guide features a variety of presents for pets like dogs, cats, and hamsters. —Jessica Moore, USA Today, 4 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

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, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing hamster

• golden hamster
• Syrian hamster

Kids Definition

hamster

noun

ham·​ster ˈham(p)-stər 

: any of various small Old World rodents with a short tail and large cheek pouches

Medical Definition

hamster

noun

ham·​ster ˈham(p)-stər 

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