underfur

Everyday

Underfur is the soft, thick, short fur close to the skin of some animals, under the longer outer hairs, which keeps them warm and dry. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons about animal adaptations: sea otters, beavers, foxes and arctic animals have dense underfur that traps air for warmth. In history: the fur trade valued underfur for making felt hats. Close to «undercoat» used by dog owners.

Examples

• Sea otters have thick underfur that keeps them warm in cold water. tree →
• The fox's underfur grows thicker in winter. tree →
• Beaver underfur was once used to make hats. tree →
• Brushing the dog removes loose underfur. tree →
• Air trapped in the underfur keeps the animal dry. tree →
• Arctic hares have soft underfur under their white coats. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Dog and cat owners usually say «undercoat». The long outer hairs are called «guard hairs».