n. 1. (Zool.) A North American aquatic fur-bearing rodent (Ondatra zibethica formerly Fiber zibethicus). It resembles a rat in color and having a long scaly tail, but the tail is compressed, the hind feet are webbed, and the ears are concealed in the fur. It has scent glands which secrete a substance having a strong odor of musk. Called also musquash, musk beaver, ondatra, and sometimes water rat. [ 1913 Webster +PJC ] 2. (Zool.) The musk shrew. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. (Zool.) The desman. [ 1913 Webster ] |