Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

possum

Noun

/ˈpɒs.əm/

Definition

A small to medium-sized marsupial that is native to the Americas and is known for its distinctive appearance and nocturnal habits.

Examples

The possum is often seen foraging for food at night.
In Australia, the word ‘possum’ is commonly used to refer to other species of marsupials like the ringtail possum.
When threatened, a possum may play dead to escape predators.

Meaning

The term ‘possum’ generally refers to any member of the family Didelphidae, which includes the Virginia opossum, the only marsupial found in North America.