# Wolverine

/ˌwʊɫvɝˈin/ (US) · /wˈʊlvəɹˌiːn/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. the animal

noun · CEFR B2

a powerful, furry wild animal that lives in cold northern forests and is known for being very brave and fierce.

For teachers: a solitary, powerful carnivorous mammal (Gulo gulo) of the mustelid family, native to northern forests and subarctic regions.

- The wolverine is much smaller than a bear, but it is strong enough to fight much larger animals.
- Biologists tracked the wolverine across the snowy tundra, noting its remarkable ability to travel vast distances in search of prey.

### 2. Michigan resident or student

noun · CEFR C1 · American English · Informal

a nickname for a person from the U.S. state of Michigan or a student at the University of Michigan.

For teachers: a demonym for a native or resident of the American state of Michigan; also a member or supporter of University of Michigan athletic teams.

- As a proud wolverine, she never missed a home game at the university stadium.
- The local alumni association gathered hundreds of wolverines for the annual charity gala in downtown Detroit.

## Examples

- The wolverine lives in the cold forests of the north.
- Hikers in the remote mountains are warned to keep their distance if they spot a wolverine near its den.
- Despite its relatively small size, the wolverine is a formidable predator capable of defending its kill against much larger animals like wolves or bears.

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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.