Definition

Noun: * European Lemming: A small, short-tailed rodent (Lemmus lemmus) native to the arctic and subarctic regions of northern Europe and Scandinavia. It is notable for its dramatic population fluctuations and periodic mass migrations, during which large numbers may move together, sometimes even into bodies of water where many drown.

Usage

• The European lemming is a keystone species in its tundra ecosystem.
• Researchers are studying the population cycles of the European lemming.
• The myth that European lemmings deliberately commit suicide by jumping off cliffs is a misconception.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in discussions of animal behavior, ecology, and population biology to describe irruptive species dynamics.
• Figuratively, "behave like lemmings" or "lemming-like behavior" is an idiom (derived from the misconception about this species) describing people who blindly follow a crowd into a potentially dangerous or foolish situation.

Variants and Related Words

• Lemming (n): The common name for various small rodents in the subfamily Arvicolinae, including the European lemming.
• Norway lemming (n): Another common name for the , or European lemning.

Synonyms

• Norway lemming
• (scientific name)

Related Idioms

• Like lemmings (to the sea): To follow the crowd blindly without independent thought, often towards a negative outcome.
  • The investors rushed into the risky market like lemmings.

Noun

1. notable for mass migrations even into the sea where many drown