noun
: either of two arboreal nocturnal mammals that are about the size of a cat, that have a broad fold of skin extending from the neck to the tail on each side so as to embrace the limbs and form a parachute used in making long sailing leaps, very fine soft fur, and largely frugivorous habits, and that are usually considered to constitute a distinct order (Dermoptera) although they have sometimes been placed with the insectivores or primates or even included among the bats:
a. : an East Indian mammal ( Cynocephalus volans ) that somewhat suggests a large squirrel
b. : a very similar Philippine mammal ( C. philippinensis )