Definition

1. Noun:
   • A specific species of opossum: Didelphis virginiana is the scientific name for the Virginia opossum, a marsupial mammal native to the eastern United States. It is characterized by its omnivorous diet, grayish fur, and a prehensile tail.
   • An animal known for a defensive behavior: This opossum is famous for its instinct to feign death (play possum) when threatened by predators.
   • A game animal in some regions: In certain areas, its meat is hunted and consumed.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We spotted a Didelphis virginiana crossing the road at night. (We spotted a Virginia opossum crossing the road at night.)
  • The Didelphis virginiana is the only marsupial found north of Mexico. (The Virginia opossum is the only marsupial found north of Mexico.)
  • A common survival tactic for the Didelphis virginiana is to play dead. (A common survival tactic for the Virginia opossum is to play dead.)

Advanced Usage

• In scientific and zoological contexts: The term is used formally in taxonomy, biology, and wildlife studies to refer precisely to this species, distinguishing it from other opossums.
  • The research paper focused on the reproductive cycle of Didelphis virginiana. (The research paper focused on the reproductive cycle of the Virginia opossum.)

Variants and Related Words

• Virginia opossum (n): The common name for .
  • The Virginia opossum has a remarkable immune system.
• Possum (n): A general, often informal, term for various marsupials, including but not exclusive to .
  • A possum was raiding our trash cans last night. (This could refer to a Virginia opossum or a similar animal.)
• Marsupial (n): The broader biological order to which this species belongs, characterized by carrying young in a pouch.
  • Kangaroos and Didelphis virginiana are both marsupials.

Synonyms

• Virginia opossum: The direct common name synonym.
• Common opossum: A general name sometimes used, though it can refer to other species.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To play possum: An idiom meaning to pretend to be dead or asleep to avoid trouble, directly derived from the behavior of .
  • When asked about the broken vase, the child just played possum. (When asked about the broken vase, the child just pretended to know nothing.)

Noun

1. omnivorous opossum of the eastern United States; noted for feigning death when in danger; esteemed as food in some areas; considered same species as the crab-eating opossum of South America