mongoose

noun

1. Any of several species of generalist predatory carnivores in the family Herpestidae; the various species range in size from rats to large cats. Indian mongooses are predators of venomous snakes, though other mongoose species have similar habits.

   “After the mongoose had satisfied its appetite, we proceeded to examine with a pocket lens the wounds he had received from the cobra; and on cleansing one of these places, the lens disclosed the broken fang of the cobra deeply imbedded in the head of the mongoose... We have had the mongoose confined ever since (now four days' time), and it is as healthy and lively as ever.”

   “He was a mongoose, rather like a little cat in his fur and his tail, but quite like a weasel in his head and his habits.”

   “To unsuspecting eyes these mongoose relatives can seem eminently pettable.”

   “Hannibal Lecter: I think Uncle Jack sees you as a fragile little tea-cup, the finest china used for only special guests. Will Graham: How do you see me? Hannibal Lecter: The mongoose I want under the house when the snakes slither by.”

2. Any members of family Eupleridae of Malagasy mongooses, only distantly related to the Herpestidae, but resembling them in appearance and habits, with larger ears and ringed tails.