Otterlike

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Having qualities or characteristics similar to those of a semi-aquatic mammal renowned for its playful nature and exceptional swimming abilities
2. Reflective of traits typical of an agile aquatic creature that exhibits curiosity and social behaviors in its habitat
3. Characterized by attributes reminiscent of a playful aquatic mammal known for its intelligence and interacting socially within its environment

Etymology: "Otterlike" is a plain compound: the noun "otter" with the suffix "-like," meaning "having the form or qualities of." Otter itself comes from Old English "otor," a word shared with Germanic relatives such as Dutch "otter" and German "Otter," all pointing back to a very old root for the animal. Attaching "-like" to a noun to form an adjective is one of English's most productive habits, and "otterlike" follows the same pattern as "catlike" or "birdlike." The suffix is itself an old word, from Old English "-lic," originally meaning "body" or "form," which is how a word once meaning "having the body of" came to mean simply "resembling."

Synonyms: otterish