spermophile Zool.
(ˈspɜːməʊfɪl)
[ad. mod.L. Spermophilus (Cuvier) or a. F. Spermophile: see spermo- and -phile.]
A rodent belonging to the squirrel-like genus Spermophilus, widely distributed in the northern hemisphere; a pouched marmot.
| 1824 Richardson in Parry N.W. Passage App. 314 We know nothing..whether they are true marmots or spermophiles. 1839 Penny Cycl. XV. 517/2 This Spermophile inhabits the barren grounds skirting the sea-coast. 1849 Sk. Nat. Hist., Mammalia IV. 18 Besides possessing cheek⁓pouches, the Spermophiles are distinguished by the closeness of the ears, the slender form of the body,..and the narrowness of the paws. c 1880 Cassell's Nat. Hist. III. 92 The Spermophiles are Squirrel-like in form and have rather short tails. |