hamster

noun

ham·​ster ˈham(p)-stər 

: any of a subfamily (Cricetinae) of small Old World rodents having very large cheek pouches

Examples of hamster in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Over the years, the family has welcomed multiple dogs, as well as a menagerie of other animals including birds, a hamster and even a bearded dragon. —Erin Clack, People.com, 26 Jan. 2025

So far, Sacramento SPCA has picked up a total of 17 animals, including nine dogs, three hamsters and three guinea pigs, Brent said. —Marcus D. Smith, Sacramento Bee, 18 Jan. 2025

Like with pet hamsters and guinea pigs, rabbit owners could think their animal appears fine one evening, only to find the creature dead in its enclosure the next morning from a stomach rupture or gastrointestinal stasis, Valand said. —Claire Thornton, USA TODAY, 11 Jan. 2025

Onyx loves to lounge but also enjoys active time on his hamster wheel. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 11 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

German, from Old High German hamustro, of Slavic origin; akin to Old Russian choměstorŭ hamster, of Iranian origin; akin to Avestan hamaēstar- oppressor

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing hamster

• golden hamster
• Syrian hamster

Kids Definition

hamster

noun

ham·​ster ˈham(p)-stər 

: any of various small Old World rodents with a short tail and large cheek pouches

Medical Definition

hamster

noun

ham·​ster ˈham(p)-stər 

: any of numerous Old World rodents (Cricetus or a related genus) having very large cheek pouches and including several used as laboratory animals