Opossum Meaning in English
word
oʊˈpɑsəm
oh-PAH-sum
əpˈɒsəm
uh-POS-um
Definition
An opossum is a small, mostly nocturnal marsupial with a long hairless tail, native to the Americas. It is known for playing dead to escape threats.
Usage & Nuances
Mainly used in North America; not to be confused with 'possum', which can refer to a different Australian animal. Common in wildlife and nature discussions. 'Play possum' is an idiom meaning to pretend to be asleep or dead.
Spanish: zarigüeyaPortuguese (BR): gambáPortuguese (PT): sarigueiaChinese (Simplified): 负鼠Chinese (Traditional): 負鼠Hindi: ओपोस्समArabic: أبوسومBengali: ওপসামRussian: опоссумJapanese: オポッサムVietnamese: chuột túi opossumKorean: 주머니쥐 (오포섬)Turkish: opossum - Amerika keseli faresiUrdu: اُپوسمIndonesian: opossum
Example Sentences
I saw an opossum in my backyard last night.
basic
An opossum has a long, hairless tail.
basic
The opossum is active at night.
basic
When scared, an opossum might 'play dead' to stay safe.
natural
Have you ever seen an opossum cross the road in the city?
natural
My dog barked at an opossum hiding under the porch.
natural