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desman

American  
[des-muhn] / ˈdɛs mən /

noun

plural

desmans
  1. either of two aquatic, insectivorous mammals, Myogale moschata, of southeastern Russia, or M. pyrenaica, of the Pyrenees, related to shrews.


desman British  
/ ˈdɛsmən /

noun

  1. either of two molelike amphibious mammals Desmana moschata ( Russian desman ) or Galemys pyrenaicus ( Pyrenean desman ), having dense fur and webbed feet: family Talpidae, order Insectivora (insectivores)

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of desman

1765–75; < Swedish, short for desman-råtta muskrat

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A leaping penalty on linebacker Desman Stephens turned a missed Oregon field goal into a touchdown.

From Los Angeles Times

But on the play, the Trojans’ Desman Stephens II leaped over the line for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.

From Los Angeles Times

USC has just five scholarship linebackers currently on the roster — one of which, Anthony Beavers Jr., is more of a hybrid safety — but boasts two strong options at the top in senior Eric Gentry and sophomore Desman Stephens.

From Los Angeles Times

Desman Stephens II, a sophomore linebacker, remembers Ryan’s down-to-earth demeanor at their first meeting and the authenticity the coach exuded.

From Los Angeles Times

Ryan said within the linebackers corps, he’s looking forward to coaching freshman Desman Stephens II and senior Eric Gentry.

From Los Angeles Times