squirrel: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Yes, its two-syllable structure with the /skw/ cluster and the /rəl/ ending is notoriously difficult for many, especially German speakers. The British /ˈskwɪrəl/ and American /ˈskwɜːrəl/ pronunciations both pose challenges.

They are different species. In North America, both are native. In the British Isles, the red squirrel is native and now rare, while the grey squirrel, introduced from North America, is common and considered invasive, outcompeting the reds.

Yes, the phrasal verb 'to squirrel away' is very common, meaning to hide or store something, especially for future use (e.g., money, food, possessions).

This follows the general spelling rule for doubling the final consonant in verbs ending with a stressed vowel + L. UK English typically doubles the L (travelled, labelled), while US English often does not (traveled, labeled). However, 'squirreled' is increasingly seen in the UK too.

A small, tree-dwelling rodent with a long bushy tail, known for hoarding nuts.

Squirrel is usually neutral. common in everyday, descriptive, and children's language; metaphorical use is informal. in register.