beaver
UK: ˈbiːvə | US: ˈbiːvər
n. a large semiaquatic rodent with thick fur, a broad flat tail, and webbed hind feet, known for building dams and lodges
n. the fur of a beaver, used in making hats or garments
v. (informal) to work hard or persistently
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The word "beaver" traces back to Old English beofor, derived from Proto-Germanic bebruz, which likely originated from Proto-Indo-European bhebhrus, meaning "brown" or "shining." This reflects the animal’s distinctive brown fur. The term has remained remarkably stable across Germanic languages (e.g., German Biber, Dutch bever), suggesting its ancient roots as a core noun for the animal. No clear morpheme boundaries exist in modern English spelling.
The beaver built an impressive dam across the stream.
Her coat was trimmed with luxurious beaver fur.
He’s been beavering away at his project all night.
Beavers are keystone species that shape aquatic ecosystems.
Historical trappers hunted beavers for their valuable pelts.