# burrow

/ˈbɝoʊ/ (US) · /bˈʌɹəʊ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/burrow
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a hole or tunnel in the ground that an animal, like a rabbit, makes to live in.

For teachers: a hole or tunnel excavated into the ground by an animal to serve as a dwelling or refuge.

## Examples

- The rabbit disappeared into its burrow.
- During the heat of the day, many desert animals stay deep inside a cool burrow to save energy.
- The complex network of the badger's burrow, known as a sett, can remain in use by successive generations for several decades.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the verb 'to dig' or 'to inhabit'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.