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Tasmanian devil

noun

  1. a small, predacious marsupial, Sarcophilus harrisii, of Tasmania, having a black coat with white patches: its dwindling population is now confined to isolated areas.


Tasmanian devil

noun

  1. a small ferocious carnivorous marsupial, Sarcophilus harrisi, of Tasmania, having black fur with pale markings, strong jaws, and short legs: family Dasyuridae Also calledursine dasyure


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Word History and Origins

Origin of Tasmanian devil1

First recorded in 1885–90

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Example Sentences

The ursine dasyure (Sarcophilus ursinus), often called the “Tasmanian Devil,” constitutes a distinct genus.

The Tasmanian Devil is said to be one of the most ferocious of animals, and to express its ferocity by a "yelling growl."

The species is called S. ursinus, the popular name being Tasmanian Devil.

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