noun
A small animal with a long, bushy tail. It climbs trees and often stores nuts.
A squirrel ran across the yard.
The squirrel is eating a nut.
Common phrases & grammar
gray squirrel · red squirrel · watch a squirrel · feed squirrels
American English
How to pronounce squirrel
noun · verbB1
SKWERl
/ˈskwɚ.l̩/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
A small animal with a long, bushy tail. It climbs trees and often stores nuts.
What to listen for
“Squirrel” is pronounced /ˈskwɚ.l̩/. The final /l̩/ forms the last syllable.
Meanings & examples
verbinformalless common
To put something in a safe or hidden place and keep it for later.
She squirrels away a little money each month.
He squirrels away snacks in his desk.
Good to know
This verb is usually used with away: squirrel away money.
Common phrases & grammar
squirrel away money · squirrel away savings · squirrel away food
squirrel + something + away
squirrel away + something
Useful expressions
to save or hide something for later use
They squirrel away money for emergencies.