spermophile

noun

sper·​mo·​phile ˈspər-mə-ˌfī(-ə)l How to pronounce spermophile (audio)
: ground squirrel

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Greek sperma seed + philos loving

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spermophile was in 1824

Rhymes for spermophile

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Browse Nearby Words

spermolysis
spermophile
Spermophilus
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Cite this Entry

“Spermophile.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spermophile. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

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