badger

badg-er · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A heavily built omnivorous burrowing mammal with a black-and-white striped head, found in Europe, Asia, and North America.

  2. 2.

    To persistently harass, pester, or pressure someone.

Forms

plural: badgers

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    badger someone into something — To persistently pressure someone until they agree.
  • •
    honey badger — A related but more aggressive African species.

Related words

See also: harass, mammal, pester, wildlife

Etymology

From Middle English bageard, probably from bage ("badge") + -ard, referring to the distinctive white mark on the animal's forehead. The verb derives from the cruel historical practice of "badger-baiting."