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Glite Dictionary
flickertail

flickertail

9.9
A small ground squirrel with a tail that moves quickly in western grasslands
  • noun
  • /ˈflɪkərˌteɪl/
  • US
translation icon : sciurido
  • North Dakota is sometimes called the Flickertail State after this unique squirrel species.

Examples

  • The flickertail is commonly seen darting in and out of its burrow on the prairies.

  • Farmers often spot flickertails scurrying across open grasslands early in the morning.

  • The flickertail is often seen in grassy fields.

  • Have you ever spotted a flickertail in the wild?

  • Farmers often spot flickertails scurrying across open grasslands early in the morning.

  • The flickertail is commonly seen darting in and out of its burrow on the prairies.

  • Have you ever spotted a flickertail in the wild?

Synonyms

ground squirrel
vsflickertail
2 3.5

A small animal that lives in holes in the ground and often has stripes

is narrower, naming a local species noted for its tail movement
Richardson ground squirrel
vsflickertail
  • Specialized
8.7

A small squirrel that lives in the grasslands of western North America and digs burrows

is a common name highlighting lively tail movements rather than the strict species name
Citellus richardsoni
vsflickertail
  • Specialized
9.9

A small ground squirrel that lives and burrows in grasslands of western United States and Canada

is the everyday term that emphasizes characteristic tail motion rather than the scientific name

Surface Forms

flickertail singular
flickertails plural

Morphology

flickertail = flicker + tail (transparent) = flicker + tail

The compound literally describes a tail that flickers; a learner knowing 'flicker' and 'tail' can infer the meaning.

Etymology

Flickertail comes from the simple words flicker (a 'quick, light movement') and tail. It names a ground squirrel known for quickly moving its tail in short flashes, so the word helps you remember the animal by that tail movement.