Mustelidae

plural noun

Mus·​tel·​i·​dae
ˌməˈsteləˌdē
: a large, widely distributed, diverse family (superfamily Arctoidea synonym Canoidea) of relatively small, chiefly carnivorous animals that have usually short legs, a long, often thin body, thick fur, and anal scent glands and that include the weasel, badger, otter, mink, marten, polecat and wolverine

Note: The smallest member of the Mustelidae is the least weasel and the largest is the sea otter.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Mustela, type genus + -idae

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Cite this Entry

“Mustelidae.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Mustelidae. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

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