[AS. oter.] A genus of carnivorous aquatic quadrupeds, included in the Weasel family. This animal is larger than others of that family, being often 4 feet long, and differs from them in living mostly in the water. Its paws are webbed for swimming, and its food is chiefly fish. Its fur is short, thick, fine, and quite handsome. Otters are found in almost all parts of the world. The American or Canadian otter is most plentiful in Canada, where thousands are killed every year for their furs.