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Definition of chipmunk

chipmunk

/ˈtʃɪp.mʌŋk/
chip · munk
Plural:chipmunks
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chipmunk Lexical Profile

chipmunk Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

North American A small, ground-dwelling rodent of the squirrel family (Sciuridae), native primarily to North America (with one species in Asia), characterized by distinctive light and dark stripes running down its back and cheeks.

Example

"We sat quietly on the log and watched a chipmunk frantically stuff seeds into its expandable cheek pouches."

• Nearby Words

chinstrap penguin
chionodoxa
chip
chipmunk
chipotle
chiropompholyx
chiru

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Algonquian (specifically Odawa/Ojibwe) word 'ajidamoonh' or 'ajidamoo', meaning 'one who descends trees headlong'. It was adapted into English in the 19th century, influenced by folk etymology to sound like 'chip' and 'munk'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Chipmunk. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 18, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/chipmunk
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