flittermouse

American  

[flit-er-mous] / ˈflɪt ərˌmaʊs /

noun

plural

flittermice

1. bat.

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flittermouse British  

/ ˈflɪtəˌmaʊs /

noun

1. a dialect name for bat 2

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Etymology

Origin of flittermouse

1540–50; flitter ¹ + mouse; calque of German Fledermaus

Example Sentences

Indeed, as he spoke a flittermouse scurried through the air within a foot of her ear.

From Castle Craneycrow by McCutcheon, George Barr

However, in some parts of the country the bat is still called by its old English name, "the flittermouse," that is, the mouse that flitters, or flutters about.

From The Squirrels and other animals Illustrations of the habits and instincts of many of the smaller British quadrupeds by Waring, George

I am compelled, therefore, to speak in the way of reconciliation on both sides, lest a feud should break out, and it should eventually fare with me as with the flittermouse in the fable.

From Specimens of German Romance Vol. I. The Patricians by Velde, Carl Franz van der

I have no son, and if I had, the chances are ten to one that he would be either a milksop or a flittermouse painted blue.

From Red Axe by Crockett, S. R. (Samuel Rutherford)

"But me no buts! or depart as recreant, not by the door like a man, but up the chimney like a flittermouse."

From Westward Ho!, or, the voyages and adventures of Sir Amyas Leigh, Knight, of Burrough, in the county of Devon, in the reign of her most glorious majesty Queen Elizabeth by Kingsley, Charles