How Do You Spell SUSLIK?

Pronunciation: [sˈʌslɪk] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "suslik" might seem confusing at first glance, but it follows a relatively simple pattern. This word is often used to describe a type of ground squirrel in Russia, Kazakhstan and other parts of Central Asia. The phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈsuːslɪk/, which indicates that it is pronounced with a long "oo" sound followed by a short "i" sound. The "s" and "l" sounds are also emphasized in this word. With this phonetic breakdown, it's easy to understand how to spell and pronounce "suslik."

SUSLIK Meaning and Definition

1. A "suslik" is a noun that refers to a small burrowing rodent species belonging to the Spermophilus genus, which is commonly found in the grasslands and steppe regions of Eurasia. Also known as a ground squirrel or souslik, the suslik belongs to the family Sciuridae and is closely related to gophers and marmots.

   These rodents typically have a compact and robust body, measuring about 15 to 25 centimeters in length. Susliks have short limbs and sharp claws that aid in digging intricate burrow systems characterized by various entrances and chambers. Their fur is usually brown or gray, providing camouflage in their natural habitat.

   Susliks are herbivorous creatures, feeding predominantly on grasses, seeds, bulbs, and occasionally insects. Due to their burrowing habits, these mammals play a crucial role in ecosystem dynamics by aerating and fertilizing the soil, which can enhance plant growth.

   The suslik is often recognized for its characteristic behavior of standing upright on its hind legs to scan its surroundings and alert the colony of potential predators. They communicate through various vocalizations and gestures, ensuring the safety of their communal burrows.

   While susliks are generally considered harmless and fascinating creatures, their burrowing activities can sometimes cause damage to infrastructure such as roads, railways, and gardens. As a result, they may be considered pests in some regions. Nonetheless, susliks hold an important place in the natural environment and contribute to the overall biodiversity of the grasslands and steppe ecosystems they inhabit.

2. The variegated or earless marmot.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SUSLIK

• auslik
• zuslik
• xuslik
• duslik
• euslik
• wuslik
• syslik
• shslik
• sjslik
• sislik
• s8slik
• s7slik
• sualik
• suzlik
• suxlik
• sudlik
• suelik
• suwlik
• suskik
• susnik

Etymology of SUSLIK

The word "suslik" is derived from the Russian language. It comes from the Russian word "суслик" (sú-slik), which refers to a type of ground squirrel commonly found in the steppes and prairies of Eurasia. The word is believed to have originated from the Old Turkic language, where it appeared as "süslük". This term eventually made its way into the Russian language, where it came to be associated with the small, burrowing rodents known as susliks.

Similar spelling words for SUSLIK

• suchlike,
• souslik.

Plural form of SUSLIK is SUSLIKS