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Glite Dictionary
whitetail antelope squirrel

whitetail antelope squirrel

9.5
A small ground squirrel with a white tail that moves quickly in the dry western United States
  • noun
  • /ˈhwaɪtˌteɪl ˈæntəloʊp ˈskwɜrəl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : ardilla antílope de cola blanca
  • The whitetail antelope squirrel is often seen darting among rocks and shrubs in arid regions.

Examples

  • Unlike many other squirrels, the whitetail antelope squirrel is active during the hottest part of the day.

  • We spotted a family of whitetail antelope squirrels while hiking in Nevada.

  • The whitetail antelope squirrel is known for its agility.

  • I spotted a whitetail antelope squirrel in the park yesterday.

  • We spotted a family of whitetail antelope squirrels while hiking in Nevada.

  • The whitetail antelope squirrel is often seen darting among rocks and shrubs in arid regions.

  • Unlike many other squirrels, the whitetail antelope squirrel is active during the hottest part of the day.

Synonyms

Citellus leucurus
vswhitetail antelope squirrel
  • Specialized
9.9

A small ground squirrel with a pale tail that lives in the western United States

highlights a distinctly white tail rather than a pale one
antelope squirrel
vswhitetail antelope squirrel
  • US
7.9

A small ground squirrel with white side stripes that moves quickly in deserts

focuses on a bright white tail instead of side stripes

Surface Forms

whitetail antelope squirrel singular
whitetail antelope squirrels plural

Morphology

whitetail + antelope + squirrel

The phrase is compositionally built: 'whitetail' (= white-tailed) modifies 'antelope squirrel' (a kind of squirrel), so a learner who knows the constituent words can infer it denotes a type of squirrel with a white tail, likely agile. Although it names a specific species, the meaning follows straightforward noun-compound patterns and is therefore predictable from its parts.

Etymology

Whitetail antelope squirrel comes from the animal's look and movement. It has a noticeable white tail and moves quickly like an antelope, so the name helps you remember that it is 'a small ground squirrel with a white tail and quick, agile movements'.