muskrat

noun

musk·​rat ˈməsk-ˌrat 

plural muskrat or muskrats

: an aquatic rodent (Ondatra zibethica) of the U.S. and Canada with a long scaly laterally compressed tail, webbed hind feet, and dark glossy brown fur

also : its fur or pelt

Illustration of muskrat

Examples of muskrat in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The researchers also analyzed several other species raised for fur, meat, and medicinal purposes, including deer, muskrats, guinea pigs, rabbits, and badgers. —Byjon Cohen, science.org, 5 Sep. 2024

Mink are semi-aquatic carnivores that eat muskrat, fish, reptiles, amphibians, waterfowl, eggs and small mammals like mice, according to the DNR. —Angelika Ytuarte, Journal Sentinel, 25 July 2024

There are also coyotes at the park, though Sweet said these aren’t as common to see, but there are mink, beaver and muskrats that can be seen along Fall Creek and near Duck Pond. —Karl Schneider, The Indianapolis Star, 28 June 2024

That said, muskrats are actually more closely related to woodland mice, Albers said. —Sarah Bowman, The Indianapolis Star, 17 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

probably by folk etymology from a word of Algonquian origin; akin to Massachusett musquash muskrat

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

muskrat

noun

musk·​rat ˈməs-ˌkrat 

plural muskrat or muskrats

: a North American rodent that lives in or near the water, has a long scaly tail and webbed hind feet, and glossy usually dark brown fur

also : its fur or pelt