Definition

Noun: A type of carnivorous bat belonging to the genus Myotis, characterized by ears that are relatively simple, broad, and rounded, resembling those of a mouse.

Usage

The term "mouse-eared bat" is used to specifically refer to members of this widespread genus of bats. It is a common name, not a scientific one, describing their physical appearance. * The mouse-eared bat is one of the most common and widely distributed bats in the world. * Researchers are studying the hibernation patterns of the mouse-eared bat.

Advanced Usage

• The name is often used in a general sense for bats of the genus. For precise identification, the full common or scientific name is used (e.g., the little brown bat, ).
• In ecological writing, "mouse-eared bats" may be discussed as indicators of environmental health due to their sensitivity to habitat changes.

Variants and Related Words

• Myotis (n): The scientific genus name for all mouse-eared bats.
• Little brown bat (n): A specific and very common species () of mouse-eared bat.
• Greater mouse-eared bat (n): A larger European species ().

Synonyms

• Myotis bat (n): A more formal synonym using the genus name.

Different Meanings

The term "mouse-eared bat" has only one primary meaning, referring specifically to bats of the genus Myotis. It is not used idiomatically.

Noun

1. a carnivorous bat with ears like a mouse