Hamster Meaning and Definition
Hamster
Pronunciation
/ˈhæmstər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A small, furry, rodent mammal, native to various parts of the world, known for its cute appearance and cute behavior.
Examples
- The child was delighted to hold the hamster at the petting zoo.
- Hamsters are popular pets due to their friendly and low-maintenance nature.
Synonyms
- Rodent
- Mammal
Antonyms
- Carnivore
- Predator
Additional Information
Hamsters are nocturnal and have a natural instinct to burrow and hide in small spaces. They are social animals and live in groups in the wild. Domesticated hamsters are popular pets due to their small size and cute appearance.
Etymology
The word “hamster” comes from the German word “Hamster,” which is derived from the Middle High German word “hamster,” meaning “stockier” or “stout.”
Usage Notes
In general, “hamster” is used as a noun to refer to the rodent or to describe its behavior. For example, “The hamster ran on its wheel” or “The hamster is very friendly.”
Cultural References
“Hamster” has appeared in various cultural references, such as in cartoons, movies, and television shows, often representing the cute and playful aspects of the rodent.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
None
Related Words or Phrases
- Mouse
- Rat
- Squirrel
Collocations
- Hamster cage
- Hamster wheel
- Hamster food
Frequency of Use
“Hamster” is a relatively common word, with a moderate frequency of use in everyday conversation and writing.
Common Misspellings
- Harster
- Hamstir
- Hemster