Definition of the word rabbit

The word "rabbit" has its origins in Old French, where it was spelled "rupart" or "rabit." This word was derived from the Latin "lepus," which means "hop" or "to jump." The Latin "lepus" is thought to be imitative of the sound of a rabbit's jumping or hopping. From Old French, the word "rabbit" entered Middle English as "rabbet" or "ribbit," and eventually evolved into its modern form. Interestingly, the term "rabbit" was initially used in Northern England to refer to any small, furry rodent, including hares and coneys (European rabbits). So, the next time you see a fluffy bunny hop by, remember that the word "rabbit" has been leaping its way through languages for centuries!