critter etymology

Etymology

The word "critter" is derived from the Middle English word "crioter," which means "to chirp or cry." It is believed to have originated from the Old French word "crier," which means "to shout or cry out."

Meaning

A "critter" is a general term used to refer to any small animal, especially one that is wild or unfamiliar. It is often used in a playful or affectionate way, and can be applied to insects, reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals.

Origin

The term "critter" first appeared in the English language in the 14th century. It was originally used to refer to small animals that made noises, such as birds and crickets. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include all types of small animals.

Examples of Usage

• "I saw a strange critter in the backyard."
• "The woods are full of critters."
• "My dog loves to chase critters."
• "That critter is so cute!"
• "I'm not sure what kind of critter that is."

critter relate terms

• creature

  Etymology The word creature is derived from the Old French word creature which in tu

• bunk

  Etymology The word bunk has multiple origins and meanings Meaning 1 sleeping platf

• tabes

  Etymology The word tabes is derived from the Latin word tabēre which means to pin

• animal

  Etymology The word animal comes from the Latin word animalis meaning having life o

• rebut

  Etymology The word rebut comes from the Old French word rebouter which means to dri

• brute

  Etymology The word brute is derived from the Old French word brute which in turn com

• fauna

  Etymology The word fauna is derived from the Latin word faunus which was the name of

• anathema

  Etymology Anathema is derived from the Greek word anáthema which means something de

• instruction

  Etymology The word instruction comes from the Latin word instructio which means a b

• haggard

  Etymology Early 17th century probably from dialectal hag to cut hack tire Mea