otter

¹

[ot-er]

noun

plural

otters ,

plural

otter .

1. any of several aquatic, furbearing, weasellike mammals of the genus Lutra and related genera, having webbed feet and a long, slightly flattened tail.

2. the fur of an otter.

Otter

²

[ot-er]

noun

1. (in theVolsunga Saga ) a son of Hreidmar, who assumed the form of an otter when fishing, and who was killed by Loki while in that form.

otter

/ ˈɒtə /

noun

1. any freshwater carnivorous musteline mammal of the subfamily Lutrinae, esp Lutra lutra ( Eurasian otter ), typically having smooth fur, a streamlined body, and webbed feet

2. the fur of any of these animals

3. Also called: otter board. a type of fishing tackle consisting of a weighted board to which hooked and baited lines are attached

verb

1. to fish using an otter

Word History and Origins

Origin of otter¹

before 900; Middle English otter, oter, Old English otor, ottor; cognate with Dutch, German otter; compare Greek hýdra water serpent ( hydra ), Sanskrit udra- otter; akin to water

Word History and Origins

Origin of otter¹

Old English otor; related to Old Norse otr, Old High German ottar , Greek hudra , Sanskrit udra

Example Sentences

It is held on a Site of Special Scientific Interest at the Waen Rhydd bog, which is home to protected species like newts, frogs, various plants and the odd otter.

From BBC

Widespread marine heat waves linked to a warming ocean are contributing to the loss of kelp forests that sea otters and other marine mammals depend on.

From Los Angeles Times

As you observe their big goofy head navigate toward the stick you threw in the river, you’ll notice their otter tail serving as their rudder as they swim back to you.

From Los Angeles Times

We kept our eyes peeled for black and brown bears, salmon leaping from the water, bald eagles by the dozens, playful otters, whales, seals, mountain goats, and more.

From Salon

Banknotes issued in Scotland and Northern Ireland already carry images of landmarks and animals such as otters.

From BBC