Short for raccoon, a North American mammal known for its masked face and dexterous paws. Note: This word has unfortunately been used as a racial slur and should be used carefully in context.
Shortened form of 'raccoon,' from Algonquian 'aroughcun' or similar, meaning 'he scratches with his hands.' The abbreviation emerged in American English in the 18th century as settlers encountered these distinctive mammals.
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