JACKRABBIT Meaning and
Definition
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A jackrabbit is a noun referring to a large North American hare with long ears and powerful hind legs that enable it to run at high speeds. Scientifically known as Lepus californicus, the jackrabbit belongs to the Leporidae family. It is well recognized for its distinctive appearance, characterized by its long legs, oversized ears, slender body, and long tail. The name "jackrabbit" stems from its swift, powerful hopping movements and its physical resemblance to a smaller rabbit or hare.
Jackrabbits are primarily found in arid regions, such as deserts and grasslands, throughout the western parts of the United States and Mexico. It is an herbivorous creature that feeds on various plant materials, including grasses, shrubs, leaves, and bark. Their unique physiological adaptations allow them to withstand extreme heat and limited water resources, making them suited to thrive in arid climates.
The jackrabbit's exceptional agility and speed, combined with its keen senses, including acute hearing and sharp vision, help it avoid predators such as coyotes, foxes, and birds of prey. Its characteristic long jumps, often reaching 10 feet in length and speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, allow it to outrun potential threats.
Due to its popularity and significance in North American culture and ecosystems, the jackrabbit has become a notable symbol of swiftness, adaptability, and resilience.
Common Misspellings for JACKRABBIT
Etymology of JACKRABBIT
The word "jackrabbit" has an interesting etymology. It is formed by combining two words: "jack" and "rabbit".
"Jack" in this context is believed to originate from the term "jackass", which refers to a male donkey. The male hare, or rabbit, was often referred to as a "jack hare" due to its similar physical characteristics with the jackass. This usage dates back to the 16th century.
The term "rabbit" itself comes from an earlier word "robette" or "rabet", derived from Old French, meaning "young rabbit". It entered the English language in the 14th century.
By combining "jack" and "rabbit", the term "jackrabbit" was coined to specifically refer to a hare species found in North America. The common explanation for the name is that it reflects the hare's physical resemblance to a jackass or male donkey.
Idioms with the word JACKRABBIT
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kneehigh to a jackrabbit
The idiom "kneehigh to a jackrabbit" is used to describe someone or something that is very small or young. It implies that the person or thing being referred to is only as tall as a rabbit's knee, emphasizing their small size or youthfulness.
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*knee-high to a jackrabbit
The idiom "knee-high to a jackrabbit" is used to describe someone or something as being very small or young, typically in reference to a child or an animal that is small in stature. It conveys the idea of smallness or youth in a lighthearted or affectionate way.
Similar spelling word for JACKRABBIT
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