noun
chipmunk
CHIP-mungk/ˈtʃɪpmʌŋk/
A small striped ground squirrel with cheek pouches.
The striped chipmunk holds a seed between its tiny front paws.
Etymology
The name probably comes from an Ojibwa word for a red squirrel, interpreted as 'one who descends trees headlong.' That image names the animal by its headfirst movement down trees.
In context
a mix between a grey squirrel and a chipmunk
More examples
- A chipmunk darts beneath the stone wall.
- The children watch the chipmunks from the porch.
- One chipmunk carries food toward its burrow.
Forms
chipmunk · chipmunks
Similar words
- squirrel
- Squirrel is the broader family term; chipmunk names small striped ground-dwelling members with cheek pouches.