A “scut” refers to the short, erect tail of certain animals, notably rabbits, hares, and deer. In these animals, the scut is often noticeable for its contrasting color and shape compared to the rest of the body. For instance, in many rabbits, the scut is typically white and becomes very visible when they are running away, serving as a visual signal to other rabbits of potential danger. In deer, the scut also helps communicate alarm or alertness to other members of the herd.
Origin of Scut
Probably of Scandinavian origin; compare Old Norse skutr end of a vessel, Icelandic skott tail1
Slang uses of Scut
Scut is medical slang for non-clinical yet essential tasks that do not require a doctor’s degree or expertise.
Scut is also slang in the USA for a worthless, contemptible person.
Examples in Literature2
A dozen scuts whisked in the air, and then vanished into the hedgerow.
LIVES OF THE FUR FOLK | M. D. HAVILAND
When they first appeared the place was alive with rabbits, who hurried to their burrows with a flash of white scuts.
MARY GRAY | KATHARINE TYNAN
Rabbits have made pitfalls in the loose, yellow sand, and we see their white scuts as vanishing points in the darkness.
POACHERS AND POACHING | JOHN WATSON
Further Reading
The Word Detective: Scut
References
- Scut. Dictionary.com ↩︎
- Scut examples in literature. Dictionary.com ↩︎
