1 vole | Definition of vole

vole

noun (1)
\ ˈvōl How to pronounce vole (audio) \

Definition of vole

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: any of various small rodents (Microtus and related genera) that typically have a stout body, rather blunt nose, and short ears, inhabit both moist meadows and dry uplands and do much damage to crops, and are closely related to muskrats and lemmings

vole

noun (2)

Definition of vole (Entry 2 of 2)

First Known Use of vole

Noun (1)

1805, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1679, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for vole

Noun (1)

earlier vole-mouse, from vole- (of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse vǫllr field) + mouse; akin to Old English weald forest — more at wold

Noun (2)

French, probably from voler to fly — more at volley entry 1

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More Definitions for vole

vole

noun
\ ˈvōl How to pronounce vole (audio) \

Kids Definition of vole

: a small animal that is a rodent which looks like a fat mouse or rat and is sometimes harmful to crops

vole

noun
\ ˈvōl How to pronounce vole (audio) \

Medical Definition of vole

: any of various small rodents (family Cricetidae and especially genus Microtus) that typically have a stout body, rather blunt nose, and short ears, that inhabit both moist meadows and dry uplands and do much damage to crops, and that are closely related to muskrats and lemmings but in general resemble stocky mice or rats

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More from Merriam-Webster on vole

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with vole

Spanish Central: Translation of vole

Nglish: Translation of vole for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of vole for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about vole