A singular form of the archaic word for bat, literally meaning 'a mouse that flutters.'
Singular form combining 'flitter' (flutter) and 'mouse,' from Old English and Old Norse roots. This compound word was used before 'bat' became the standard term for these flying mammals.
German still uses this exact concept—'Fledermaus' literally means 'flutter-mouse' and it's the standard modern word for bat! It shows how this old English compound was so logical that other languages kept the same idea alive.
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