Porcupine
['pɔːkjʊpaɪn] or ['pɔrkjə'paɪn]
Definition
(noun.) relatively large rodents with sharp erectile bristles mingled with the fur.
Inputed by Cole--From WordNet
Definition
(n.) Any Old Word rodent of the genus Hystrix, having the back covered with long, sharp, erectile spines or quills, sometimes a foot long. The common species of Europe and Asia (Hystrix cristata) is the best known.
(n.) Any species of Erethizon and related genera, native of America. They are related to the true porcupines, but have shorter spines, and are arboreal in their habits. The Canada porcupine (Erethizon dorsatus) is a well known species.
Editor: Wallace
Definition
n. one of the largest of rodent quadrupeds covered with spines or quills.
Typed by Erica
Unserious Contents or Definition
To see a porcupine in your dreams, denotes that you will disapprove any new enterprise and repel new friendships with coldness. For a young woman to dream of a porcupine, portends that she will fear her lover. To see a dead one, signifies your abolishment of ill feelings and possessions.
Editor: Nell
Examples
- With that head it is like one of those porcupine fish that swallow air and swell up after they are caught. Hemingway, Ernest. For Whom The Bell Tolls.
- Well, don't make a porcupine of yourself, it isn't becoming. Louisa May Alcott. Little Women.
- A still greater number must be called monstrosities, such as six-fingered men, porcupine men, Ancon sheep, Niata cattle, etc. Charles Darwin. On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection.
- I am quite a fretful porcupine. Charles Dickens. David Copperfield.
- Bats, bears, some animals of the rodent order, such as the porcupine, the dormouse, some squirrels, etc. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
Typed by Jeanette