rodent

American  

[rohd-nt] / ˈroʊd nt /

adjective

1. belonging or pertaining to the gnawing or nibbling mammals of the order Rodentia, including the mice, squirrels, beavers, etc.

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noun

1. a rodent mammal.

rodent British  

/ ˈrəʊdənt /

noun

1. 1. any of the relatively small placental mammals that constitute the order Rodentia , having constantly growing incisor teeth specialized for gnawing. The group includes porcupines, rats, mice, squirrels, marmots, etc

   2. ( as modifier )

      rodent characteristics

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rodent Scientific  

/ rōd′nt /

1. Any of various very numerous, mostly small mammals of the order Rodentia, having large front teeth used for gnawing. The teeth grow throughout the animal's life, and are kept from getting too long by gnawing. Rodents make up about half the living species of mammals, and include rats, mice, beavers, squirrels, lemmings, shrews, and hamsters.

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Other Word Forms

• rodent-like adjective
• rodentlike adjective

Etymology

Origin of rodent

1825–35; < New Latin Rodentia Rodentia

Example Sentences

The authors note that occasional hopping is already observed in many smaller animals today, including hopping rodents and small marsupials.

From Science Daily

It has ready food sources including rodents, birds and their eggs.

From Los Angeles Times

Local politicians and business representatives said a main source of the rodent problem is a laneway which is covered with pigeon excrement and hasn't been cleaned in several months.

From BBC

The lifespan benefits of reduced reproduction appeared across a wide range of mammals, including primates, marsupials, and rodents.

From Science Daily

Fasciolata showed mixed meals as well, including combinations of rodent and bird, and bird and human.

From Science Daily