pika

noun

pi·​ka ˈpī-kə  ˈpē- 

: any of various short-eared small lagomorph mammals (family Ochotonidae) of rocky uplands of Asia and western North America with relatively short hind legs

called also coney, rock rabbit

Illustration of pika

Examples of pika in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to the ancient bristlecone pines, there is unique wildlife here, including bighorn sheep, endangered trout, marmots, and a tiny rodent known as a pika. —Ernie Cowan, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Aug. 2025

Keep an eye out for pikas and marmots along the way. —Graham Averill, Outside Online, 7 Mar. 2025

Once reaching the talus slopes along the top of the highest points, American pikas run in all directions, including between rocks below the trail. —Estes Park Trail-Gazette, The Denver Post, 6 Aug. 2024

Other animals that live at high elevations are also in peril due to climate change, including wolverines and American pikas. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from Evenki (Tungusic language of Siberia)

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

pika

noun

pi·​ka ˈpē-kə 

: any of various small short-eared mammals of rocky uplands of Asia and western North America that are related to the rabbits