Definition of lemming
: any of various small short-tailed furry-footed rodents (such as genera Lemmus and Dicrostonyx) of circumpolar distribution that are notable for population fluctuations and recurrent mass migrations Lemmings are the locusts of mammals, and they will strip a habitat bare. Then, they begin migrating forward to find a new feeding ground, swarming over boulders, around trees, whatever stands in their way. If they run into a body of water, they try to swim across. — Natalie Angier
lemminglike
play \ˈle-miŋ-ˌlīk\ adjective Lured by stock prices defying gravity and handsome bond yields, Americans have marched into the funds in lemminglike fashion. — Penelope Wang and David PaulyFrom the M-W Editors
Recent Examples of lemming from the Web
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Once again, yer a lemming following the other lemmings over the Windoze cliff.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'lemming'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of lemming
Norwegian
First Known Use: 1713
LEMMING Defined for English Language Learners
lemming
playDefinition of lemming for English Language Learners
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: a small animal that lives in northern areas of North America, Europe, and Asia
Learn More about lemming
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See words that rhyme with lemming Spanish Central: Translation of lemming Nglish: Translation of lemming for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lemming
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