What does pika mean?
A pika is a small, rabbit-like mammal of the genus Ochotona, a group found in rocky mountain regions across parts of Asia and North America. Although pikas are related to rabbits and hares, they differ from most rabbits in several conspicuous ways: they are generally smaller, have shorter ears and limbs, lack a visible tail, and commonly live among exposed rocks. Their short, rounded bodies and dense fur help them withstand cold conditions. Pikas spend much of the warmer season gathering grasses and other vegetation, then dry it and store it in sheltered places to serve as food during winter. Their calls, especially their sharp whistles, can be distinctive in otherwise quiet alpine habitats. The word is primarily zoological, though it is also used informally for particular species such as the American pika and the rock pika.
nounA pika is any of several small, short-eared mammals in the family Ochotona, related to rabbits and hares. Pikas live chiefly in rocky mountain habitats and are notable for their rounded bodies, short limbs, and lack of a visible tail.
- Any of several small, rabbit-like mammals of the genus Ochotona, especially those found in mountainous regions of Asia and North America.
"A pika gathered dried grasses and stored them beneath a flat stone for the winter."
"The American pika perched on a sun-warmed boulder, surveying the alpine meadow below."
"Researchers identified the pika by its whistle-like alarm call and its habit of storing vegetation in small piles."
The standard plural is pikas.
"Several pikas basked on the rocks near the alpine meadow."
Before it became a word for a mammal, the name entered English from Russian, where it referred to the same distinctive mountain animal.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pika come from?
The English word pika was borrowed from Russian, where pika was used for the animal. Its ultimate linguistic source is less certain, and the English form has remained relatively uncommon outside zoological and regional usage.
Related word forms
How pika is actually used
The term is normally used as a zoological name for the animal. It is uncommon in general conversation, and different species are often identified by additional modifiers such as American, Himalayan, or rock.
Easily confused with pika
A pika is a small mammal, whereas a pika pie is an Australian meat pie traditionally made with wombat.