lemÌc. Lemizh grammar and dictionary

Lemizh / English dictionary


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ksmàs.

to make tree squirrels (also the constellation corresponding to Lynx and Leo Minor; see appendix, Constellations)

Usage notes

Calling someone a squirrel refers to their thrift or stinginess, often combined with a tendency to come up with unexpected presents (especially in winter). This use is only attested from Early New Lemizh.

The word might have referred to other tree-dwelling rodents in the past, but in NLem it is definitely the red squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris. Extended to tree squirrels of other continents in modern times.

Etymology

NLem ksmUs‑a
LMLem, MLem kesmUs‑yr
OLem kes‑müs‑, clarifying compound of
  OLem kes‑
PLem kes‑, of unknown origin
 —and—
  OLem müs‑ ‘mouse’
PLem *mūs‑
PIE *múh₂s

Cognates

Eng mouse, Lat mūs ‘mouse’