Search Dictionary
Definition of dassie

dassie

/ˈdæsi/
das · sie
Plural:dassies
JUMP TO:

dassie Lexical Profile

dassie Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

South African A small, herbivorous mammal of the order Hyracoidea, native to Africa and the Middle East, characterized by a stout body, short legs, and a lack of a tail, often found living in rocky habitats.

Example

"While taking the cable car up Table Mountain, the tourists were delighted to spot a dassie basking on a sunlit ledge."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for dassie

Word Nuance & Usage

The term 'dassie' is primarily used in South African English; in broader scientific or international contexts, the animal is typically referred to as a rock hyrax.

• Rhymes for dassie

• Nearby Words

dashboard
dasheen
dashi
dassie
date
date palm
datura

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Afrikaans 'dassie', a diminutive of the Dutch word 'das' (meaning 'badger'), as early Dutch settlers in South Africa mistakenly thought the animals resembled small badgers.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Dassie. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/dassie
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.