-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
cottontail
noun
cot·ton·tail
ˈkä-tᵊn-ˌtāl
: any of several rather small North American rabbits (genus Sylvilagus) sandy to grayish brown in color with a white-tufted underside of the tail
Examples of cottontail in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The cottontail rabbits that are brought to the rehabilitation center often don't have an obvious injury or visible blood.
—
Gina Lee Castro, Journal Sentinel, 23 Sep. 2024
If a young cottontail is truly abandoned or injured, call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
—
Marina Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 28 Mar. 2024
Discover fun facts about the eastern cottontail rabbit and make a craft to take home during this 45-minute program at Poplar Grove Shelter.
—
Karl Schneider, The Indianapolis Star, 25 Apr. 2024
The Appalachian cottontail and swamp rabbit are also seen throughout the state, and the Appalachian cottontail is commonly confused with the eastern cottontails.
—
Marina Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 28 Mar. 2024
See all Example Sentences for cottontail ![](/dist-cross-dungarees/2025-02-06--20-43-45-x16ho/images/svg/redesign/arrow-right-exemplar.svg)
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Word History
First Known Use
1835, in the meaning defined above
Articles Related to cottontail
Dictionary Entries Near cottontail
Cite this Entry
“Cottontail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cottontail. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
cottontail
noun
cot·ton·tail
ˈkät-ᵊn-ˌtāl
: any of several small brownish gray rabbits with a fluffy tail that is white on the underside
More from Merriam-Webster on cottontail
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share