pocket mouse

noun

: any of various nocturnal burrowing rodents (family Heteromyidae) that resemble mice, live in arid parts of western North America, and have long hind legs and tail and fur-lined cheek pouches

Illustration of pocket mouse

Illustration of pocket mouse

Examples of pocket mouse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Before 1932, the Pacific pocket mouse was abundant in California, playing an important role for plant life by dispersing seeds and encouraging growth. — Julia Daye, Sacramento Bee, 31 May 2024 Since 1932, the Pacific pocket mouse population took a massive plunge, eventually presumed to be extinct for 20 years. — Julia Daye, Sacramento Bee, 31 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pocket mouse was in 1877

Rhymes for pocket mouse

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Browse Nearby Words

pocket money
pocket mouse
pocket piece
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Cite this Entry

“Pocket mouse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pocket%20mouse. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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