Opossum (noun)

A nocturnal marsupial with a prehensile tail, native to the Americas.

Origin:

The term 'opossum' is derived from the powhatan indian word 'apasum', meaning 'white animal'.

Examples:

1. The opossum was often seen rummaging through the garbage cans at night.
2. The opossum played an important role in controlling the insect population.
3. The opossum was revered by some Native American tribes as a symbol of cunning and survival.
4. The opossum is the only marsupial native to North America.
5. The opossum's ability to 'play possum' or feign death as a defense mechanism is well known.