cottontail

noun

cot·​ton·​tail ˈkä-tᵊn-ˌtāl How to pronounce cottontail (audio)
: any of several rather small North American rabbits (genus Sylvilagus) sandy to grayish brown in color with a white-tufted underside of the tail

Examples of cottontail in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The cottontail rabbits that are brought to the rehabilitation center often don't have an obvious injury or visible blood. Gina Lee Castro, Journal Sentinel, 23 Sep. 2024 If a young cottontail is truly abandoned or injured, call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Marina Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 28 Mar. 2024 Discover fun facts about the eastern cottontail rabbit and make a craft to take home during this 45-minute program at Poplar Grove Shelter. Karl Schneider, The Indianapolis Star, 25 Apr. 2024 The Appalachian cottontail and swamp rabbit are also seen throughout the state, and the Appalachian cottontail is commonly confused with the eastern cottontails. Marina Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 28 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cottontail 

Word History

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cottontail was in 1835

Dictionary Entries Near cottontail

Cite this Entry

“Cottontail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cottontail. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

cottontail

noun
cot·​ton·​tail ˈkät-ᵊn-ˌtāl How to pronounce cottontail (audio)
: any of several small brownish gray rabbits with a fluffy tail that is white on the underside

More from Merriam-Webster on cottontail

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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