jackrabbit

/ˈdʒækˌræbɪt/
noun
  1. A large hare of North America with very long ears and long hind legs, known for its fast running and jumping.
    • The jackrabbit's long ears help it stay cool in the hot sun.
    • We spotted a jackrabbit hopping through the sagebrush during our hike.
    • A jackrabbit darted across the desert road in front of the car.
Synonyms
verb
  1. To start or move suddenly and quickly, like a jackrabbit; often used in the phrase 'jackrabbit start'.
    • Don't jackrabbit out of the driveway; check for traffic first.
    • The scared cat jackrabbited under the sofa when the door slammed.
    • The driver jackrabbited away from the stoplight as soon as it turned green.