noun
: any of numerous semiaquatic shrews usually living adjacent to swift-flowing streams and having hind feet that are typically fringed with long stiff hairs and are sometimes partially webbed: as
a. : a widely distributed Old World shrew ( Neomys fodiens )
b. : any of several shrews (genus Chimarrogale ) of Japan, Borneo, and Sumatra
c. : any of several web-footed shrews (genus Nectogale ) of Tibetan uplands
d. : a common No. American shrew ( Sorex palustris )