critter

Thân thiện

A little critter peeks out from under a fallen log.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A regional or informal term for a creature, especially a domestic animal: "Critter" is primarily used in certain dialects of American English to refer to an animal, often one that is small or considered with some degree of familiarity or affection. It can also refer to any living being, but its use for humans is typically humorous or derogatory.
   • Any animal, especially one perceived as troublesome or unfamiliar: In some contexts, "critter" can refer to a wild or pesky animal.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We saw a little furry critter run across the path. (We saw a little furry animal run across the path.)
  • The farmer takes good care of all his critters. (The farmer takes good care of all his animals.)
  • What kind of critter made this hole in the garden? (What kind of animal made this hole in the garden?)

Advanced Usage

• Used humorously or affectionately: Often implies a smaller or less threatening animal.
  • Come here, you cute little critter! (Come here, you cute little animal!)
• Used to refer to a person in a humorous or mildly derogatory way:
  • He's a strange old critter, but he's harmless. (He's a strange old fellow, but he's harmless.)

Variants and Related Words

• Creature (n): A more formal and standard term for any living being, especially an animal.
  • All living creatures need water. (All living beings need water.)

Synonyms

• Animal: A living organism that feeds on organic matter.
• Beast: An animal, especially a large or wild four-footed one.
• Varmint (informal/regional): An annoying or troublesome animal.

Notes on Usage

• Register: "Critter" is informal and strongly associated with rural or Southern American English dialects. It is less common in formal writing or standard speech.
• Connotation: The word often carries a neutral to affectionate tone when referring to animals. When applied to people, it is usually informal and can range from humorous to slightly disrespectful, depending on context.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a regional term for `creature' (especially for domestic animals)