armadillo
- A small to medium-sized mammal known for its leathery armor shell, belonging to the order Cingulata, native to the Americas. Armadillos are characterized by their bony plates covering the back, head, legs, and tail. nounThe armadillo curled into a ball to protect itself from predators.Armadillos are often seen foraging for insects in the early morning or late evening.
- A term used informally in some contexts to describe a person who is perceived as being overly cautious or defensive. nounEver since the incident, he's been such an armadillo, never taking any risks.She approached the negotiation like an armadillo, shielding herself from any potential criticism.