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Rabbits - Dictionary Definition and Overview |
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Hare \Hare\, n. [AS. hara; akin to D. haas, G. hase, OHG. haso,
Dan. [ae] Sw. hare, Icel. h?ri, Skr. ?a?a. ?.]
1. (Zo["o]l.) A rodent of the genus Lepus, having long hind
legs, a short tail, and a divided upper lip. It is a timid
animal, moves swiftly by leaps, and is remarkable for its
fecundity.
Note: The species of hares are numerous. The common European
hare is Lepustimidus. The northern or varying hare of
America ({L. Americanus), and the prairie hare ({L.
campestris), turn white in winter. In America, the
various species of hares are commonly called rabbits.
2. (Astron.) A small constellation situated south of and
under the foot of Orion; Lepus.
Hare and hounds, a game played by men and boys, two, called
hares, having a few minutes' start, and scattering bits of
paper to indicate their course, being chased by the
others, called the hounds, through a wide circuit.
Hare kangaroo (Zo["o]l.)., a small Australian kangaroo
({Lagorchestes Leporoides), resembling the hare in size
and color,
Hare's lettuce (Bot.), a plant of the genus Sonchus, or
sow thistle; -- so called because hares are said to eat it
when fainting with heat. --Dr. Prior.
Jumping hare. (Zo["o]l.) See under Jumping.
Little chief hare, or Crying hare. (Zo["o]l.) See Chief
hare.
Sea hare. (Zo["o]l.) See Aplysia.
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