hedgehog

[ˈhɛdʒ.hɒɡ]

hedgehog Definition

  • 1a small nocturnal Old World mammal with a spiny coat and short legs, able to roll itself into a ball for defense.
  • 2a device or barrier for protection

Using hedgehog: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hedgehog" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The hedgehog is a popular pet in some countries.

  • Example

    The hedgehog rolled up into a ball when it felt threatened.

  • Example

    The garden was surrounded by a hedgehog fence to keep out rabbits.

hedgehog Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for hedgehog

Phrases with hedgehog

  • hedgehog's dilemma

    a metaphor about the challenges of human intimacy, where two people are afraid to get too close to each other because they might hurt each other emotionally

    Example

    Their relationship was like the hedgehog's dilemma; they both wanted to be close but were afraid of getting hurt.

  • a type of edible mushroom with a cap that resembles the spines of a hedgehog

    Example

    The chef used hedgehog mushrooms to make a delicious risotto.

  • a type of cactus with spines that resemble the spines of a hedgehog

    Example

    The hedgehog cactus is native to the deserts of North America.

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Summary: hedgehog in Brief

A hedgehog [ˈhɛdʒ.hɒɡ] is a small, spiny mammal that can roll itself into a ball for protection. It is also used to refer to devices or barriers for protection, such as a hedgehog fence. The phrase 'hedgehog's dilemma' is a metaphor for the challenges of human intimacy, while 'hedgehog mushroom' and 'hedgehog cactus' are types of edible mushrooms and cacti, respectively, with spines resembling those of a hedgehog.

How do native speakers use this expression?