Definition

1. Noun:
   • A semiaquatic carnivorous mammal belonging to the weasel family (Mustelidae), characterized by a long, slender body, webbed feet, a thick tail, and dense fur. Otters are known for their playful behavior and are found in both freshwater and marine environments.
   • The fur or pelt of this animal, historically valued for its warmth and durability.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Animal):
  • We saw a family of otters playing in the river.
  • The sea otter uses a rock as a tool to crack open shellfish.
• Noun (Fur):
  • The old coat was trimmed with otter.
  • Trade in otter was once a significant industry.

Advanced Usage

• "Otter-like": Resembling or characteristic of an otter.
  • The swimmer moved with an otter-like grace through the water.
• Ecological Context: Often used in discussions about conservation, as many otter species are threatened by habitat loss and pollution.
  • The project aims to restore the wetland to support the return of the otter.

Variants and Related Words

• Otterhound (n): A breed of dog originally bred for hunting otters.
• Otter shell (n): A type of bivalve mollusk, unrelated to the mammal but sharing part of the name.

Synonyms

• Lutrine (adj): Of or relating to otters. (Technical term)
• Mustelid (n): A member of the weasel family, which includes otters, badgers, and minks.

Related Phrases

• "As playful as an otter": An idiom describing someone who is very lively and fond of play.
  • The children in the pool were as playful as otters.
• "Otter's pocket": A whimsical, non-standard phrase sometimes used in folklore or fantasy to imply a secret or hidden place.

Noun

1. freshwater carnivorous mammal having webbed and clawed feet and dark brown fur
2. the fur of an otter