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Glite Dictionary
New World least weasel

New World least weasel

9.3
A very small wild mammal in Canada and northeastern United States that turns white in winter
  • noun
  • /nuː wɜrld liːst ˈwiːzəl/
  • US
translation icon : mustélido menor del Nuevo Mundo
  • During winter, the New World least weasel develops a pure white coat for camouflage.

Examples

  • The New World least weasel is the smallest carnivore found in North America.

  • Farmers appreciate the New World least weasel for controlling rodent populations.

  • The New World least weasel is known for its agility.

  • Many people are fascinated by the New World least weasel.

  • During winter, the New World least weasel develops a pure white coat for camouflage.

  • Farmers appreciate the New World least weasel for controlling rodent populations.

  • The New World least weasel is the smallest carnivore found in North America.

Synonyms

Mustela rixosa
vsNew World least weasel
  • Specialized
9.9

A very small weasel that lives in Canada and the northeastern United States

gives the same species but highlights white winter coat and agile hunting
Mustela nivalis
vsNew World least weasel
  • Specialized
9.9

A very small weasel that eats small animals in Europe, Asia and North America

refers specifically to populations in Canada and the northeastern United States

Surface Forms

New World least weasel singular
New World least weasels plural

Morphology

New + world + least + weasel

The phrase composes understandable parts: 'New World' (the Americas) + 'least' (smallest) + 'weasel' (a small carnivorous mammal), so a B1 learner who knows the words can infer it refers to a very small weasel found in the New World. However, it is a taxonomic/common name for a specific species with conventions (e.g. 'least weasel') and some species-specific information is not derivable from the words alone, so the meaning is only partially predictable.

Etymology

New World least weasel is a name that describes the animal: New World points to the Americas, least means 'smallest', and weasel is a small, quick hunter. So the name helps you remember it is the tiniest weasel in North America and why it grows a white winter coat to hide in the snow.