noun
also chip·monk ˈchipˌməŋk
( -s )
Etymology: alteration (probably influenced by chipping squirrel) of earlier chitmunk, of Algonquian origin; akin to Ojibwa atchitamõ squirrel
1. : any of numerous small striped American squirrels (genera Tamias and Eutamias ) that are semiterrestrial in habits and intermediate between the typical tree squirrels and the true ground squirrels — called also ground squirrel, striped squirrel
2. : any of various other squirrels of similar habits or appearance (as the mantled ground squirrel)