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Definition of water shrew
: any of numerous semiaquatic shrews usually living adjacent to swift-flowing streams and having hind feet that are typically fringed with long stiff hairs and are sometimes partially webbed: such as
a : a widely distributed Old World shrew (Neomys fodiens)
b : any of several shrews (genus Chimarrogale) of Japan, Borneo, and Sumatra
c : any of several web-footed shrews (genus Nectogale) of Tibetan uplands
d : a common North American shrew (Sorex palustris)
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