Pronunciation: [ˈɒtə] (IPA) 
The word "otter" is spelled using the English alphabet, but its pronunciation can be a bit tricky. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈɒtər/. The first sound is a short "o" as in "got", followed by a "t" sound and then an "uh" sound. The final sound is a rolled "r", which is pronounced by vibrating the tongue against the roof of the mouth. So, to spell "otter" correctly, remember to include two "t"s and the rolled "r" at the end!
Otter refers to a carnivorous mammal belonging to the family Mustelidae, specifically the subfamily Lutrinae. These aquatic creatures are known for their unique physical characteristics and behavior. Otters typically have long, slim bodies with short legs and a thick tail, which allows for efficient swimming. They possess dense, waterproof fur to keep them warm in water and maintain buoyancy.
With webbed feet, otters are adept swimmers and often inhabit rivers, lakes, or coastal areas. They have nimble paws with sharp claws, enabling them to catch fish, crustaceans, amphibians, or other aquatic prey. Otters are also capable of diving underwater for extended periods, utilizing their keen sense of smell and sharp eyesight to locate food.
While there are multiple species of otters, they are generally considered to be highly social animals. They reside in family groups, known as romps, huddles, or rafts, depending on the species. Otters communicate with various vocalizations and scent markings to establish territories and coordinate group activities.
Due to habitat destruction, pollution, and overhunting, some otter species are listed as endangered or threatened. However, conservation efforts, including habitat protection and reintroduction programs, aim to safeguard their populations. Otters are also highly valued for their role in maintaining the biodiversity of freshwater ecosystems, as they regulate populations of their prey and help maintain the health of their habitats.
An amphibious animal resembling the weasel inhabiting the banks of rivers, feeding principally on fish-the sea-otter is of larger size.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "otter" can be traced back to Old English, where it was originally spelled "ōtter". The Old English term itself is believed to have derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*ūdrō", which meant "otter". This Proto-Germanic term shares a common ancestor with other Germanic languages, such as Old High German "ottar" and Old Norse "othr". The ultimate origin of the word is uncertain, but it could be linked to the Proto-Indo-European root "*udr-" or "*wodr-", which meant "water" or "wet". This connection suggests that the word "otter" originally referred to an animal associated with water or living in aquatic environments.
