Woodchuck - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A woodchuck, also known as a groundhog, is a small, burrowing rodent found in North America. It is known for its stout body, short legs, and habit of hibernating in winter.
Definition:
A North American rodent of the squirrel family, also known as a groundhog.
Synonyms:
groundhog, marmot, land beaver
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
predator, bird (context-dependent)
Common Collocations:
chuck wood, burrow digging, hibernation period
Derivatives:
woodchucking, woodchucked
Usage Tips:
Use "woodchuck" for the animal; "groundhog" is more common in weather lore.
Common Phrases:
"How much wood would a woodchuck chuck, " Groundhog Day, whistle-pig (regional)
Etymology:
Derived from Algonquian word "wuchak," unrelated to wood or chucking.
Examples:
- 1. The woodchuck emerged from its burrow in early spring.
- 2. Farmers often consider woodchucks pests due to their digging habits.
- 3. On Groundhog Day, people watch if the woodchuck sees its shadow.
- 4. The woodchuck stored fat before hibernating for winter.