SINCE 1828
water shrew
nounDefinition 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)
Comments on water shrew
What made you want to look up water shrew? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Time Traveler Quiz: Which Word Came First?
-
- Which came first?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
Time Traveler Quiz: Which Word Came First?
Which word entered the English language first?
Take the quiz -
Slippery Words Quiz—Changing with the Times
Do you know these earlier meanings of words?
Take the quiz -
How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
Take the quiz -
Word Winder's CrossWinder
Play the game
Share water shrew
Resources for water shrew