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numbat

noun
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num·​bat | \ ˈnəm-ˌbat How to pronounce numbat (audio) \
plural -s

Definition of numbat

: a small Australian marsupial (Myrmecobius fasciatus of the family Myrmecobiidae) that has a reddish-brown coat with white stripes on the back, a pointed snout, and a long slender tongue used to feed chiefly on termites

— called also banded anteater

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First Known Use of numbat

circa 1845, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for numbat

native name in Australia

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Time Traveler for numbat

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The first known use of numbat was circa 1845

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Cite this Entry

“Numbat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/numbat. Accessed 6 Mar. 2021.

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