Genets

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Known for their elongated bodies and spotted coats, these nimble creatures are primarily found in Africa and Europe, where they exhibit excellent climbing skills and keen senses
2. These small carnivorous mammals are part of the Viverridae family, characterized by their slender forms and distinctive fur patterns
3. Small nocturnal mammals with slender bodies and spotted fur, often agile climbers native to parts of Europe and Africa; plural form used when referring to more than one of these animals

Etymology: The plural "genets" is simply the plural of "genet," a small spotted, long-tailed mammal related to civets, native to Africa and southwestern Europe. The singular came into English in Middle English from Anglo-Norman "genette" and Middle French "genette" or "jenette," and its ultimate origin is uncertain. It is closely related to "jennet," a word for a small Spanish horse, and both trace back to the same French source.

Synonyms: mongoose, civet