Gerbil (noun)

A small, burrowing rodent that is native to desert regions of Asia and northern Africa, and is commonly kept as a pet.

Origin:

The word gerbil is believed to have originated from the french word 'jerbille,' meaning 'desert rat.'.

Examples:

1. The gerbil is a popular pet because of its playful and active nature.
2. Gerbils are social animals and should be kept in pairs or groups.
3. Gerbils are active during the day and spend most of their time burrowing and digging.
4. The gerbil is a herbivore, and its diet should consist of hay, vegetables, and pellets.
5. Gerbils have a lifespan of about 3-5 years, and can be trained to perform various tricks and tasks.