Definition

Noun: * A small, nocturnal rodent of the family Gliridae, specifically the common dormouse species native to Europe and parts of Asia Minor. It is characterized by its golden-brown fur, large eyes, long whiskers, and a bushy tail. It is known for its long hibernation period and its arboreal (tree-dwelling) habits.

Usage

The term "Muscardinus avellanarius" is the scientific binomial name (genus and species) for this animal. It is used in formal, academic, and zoological contexts. * In everyday language, this species is most commonly referred to as the "hazel dormouse". * The word is always treated as a singular noun.

Examples

• Scientific/Formal Context:
  • The study focused on the hibernation patterns of Muscardinus avellanarius.
  • Conservation efforts are crucial for protecting Muscardinus avellanarius in its woodland habitat.
• General Context (using the common name):
  • We set up special nest boxes to monitor the local population of hazel dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius).

Advanced Usage

• The name is often italicized in scientific writing, as is standard for genus and species names.
• After the first use in a text, it is sometimes abbreviated to .

Variants and Related Words

• Hazel dormouse (n): The standard common name for this species.
• Common dormouse (n): Another frequent common name.
• Dormouse (n): The general term for rodents in the family Gliridae, which includes and other species.

Synonyms

• Hazel dormouse
• Common dormouse

Different Meanings

• "Muscardinus avellanarius" refers exclusively to this specific biological species. It does not have other metaphorical or idiomatic meanings.

Notes

• This word is a compound scientific name. The first part () is the genus, and the second part () is the specific epithet, often descriptive. is derived from Latin for "of hazelnuts," referring to its preferred food.

Noun

1. a variety of dormouse