A small European rodent (Cricetus frumentarius). It is remarkable for having a pouch on each side of the jaw, under the skin, and for its migrations. Hamsters are commonly kept as a pets. [1913 Webster]
hamster, n. any of various rodents of the subfamily Cricetinae, esp. Cricetus cricetus, having a short tail and large cheek pouches for storing food, kept as a pet or laboratory animal.
Etymology
G f. OHG hamustro corn-weevil
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