1. (Science: zoology) Any carnivorous animal of the genus Lutra, and related genera. Several species are described. They have large, flattish heads, short ears, and webbed toes. They are aquatic, and feed on fish. Their fur is soft and valuable. The common otter of Europe is Lutra vulgaris; the American otter is L. Canadensis; other species inhabit south America and asia.
Origin: OE. Oter, AS. Otor; akin to D. & G. Otter, Icel. Otr, Dan. Odder, Sw. Utter, Lith. Udra, Russ, vuidra, Gr. Water serpent, hydra, Skr. Udra otter, and also to E. Water. 137. See Water, and cf. Hydra.