Here's a breakdown:
* Origin: The word comes from "vermin", meaning small, destructive animals. However, "varmint" often has a less negative connotation than "vermin".
* Common examples: Varmint can refer to a wide variety of animals, including rodents like rats, squirrels, and prairie dogs; predators like coyotes and foxes; and even birds like crows and ravens.
* Context: The term "varmint" is often used in the context of hunting or pest control, but it can also be used in a more casual way to refer to any small, annoying animal.
While "varmint" isn't a strictly scientific term, it's a recognizable and commonly used word in certain regions.