banded mongoose

noun

: a diurnal, gregarious, African mongoose (Mungos mungo) that is brownish gray with alternate transverse bands of dark brown and yellow across the back to the base of the tail

Banded mongooses live in extended-family groups, with as many as ten females breeding at the same time.

—Harvey Leifert, Natural History, October 2008

Now a study of wild banded mongooses (Mungos mungo) shows that pups copy [foraging] skills from "teenage" males who act as escorts.

—New Scientist, 17 July 2010

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now