Viverridae

plural noun

Vi·​ver·​ri·​dae
-rəˌdē
: a family of carnivorous mammals that are rarely larger than a domestic cat but are long, slender, and like a weasel in build with short more or less retractable claws and rounded feet, and include the civets, genets, linsangs, and in some classifications the mongooses

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Viverra, type genus + -idae

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near Viverridae

Cite this Entry

“Viverridae.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Viverridae. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!