Word: Ermine
Part of Speech: Noun
Basic Definition:
An ermine is a small animal that is part of the weasel family. It is known for its beautiful white fur, especially during the winter when it changes color to blend in with the snow.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "ermine" to talk about the animal itself or the fur that comes from it. It is often associated with luxury and is used in clothing or royal garments.
Example Sentence:
"The king wore a robe made of ermine during the ceremony to show his power and status."
Advanced Usage:
In literature and art, "ermine" can symbolize purity, nobility, or high status because of its association with royalty. You might find phrases like "the ermine of the throne" in historical contexts.
Word Variants:
- Ermines (plural): Refers to more than one ermine. - Ermine fur: Refers specifically to the fur of the ermine.
Different Meanings:
1. Animal: The ermine as a creature, known for its white winter coat. 2. Fur: The luxurious fur obtained from the ermine, often used in fashion.
Synonyms:
- Stoat: This is another name for the ermine, especially when it is in its brown summer coat. - Weasel: While this refers to a broader family of animals, the ermine is a type of weasel.
Idioms/Phrases:
There are no common idioms specifically using "ermine," but it can be used in phrases that evoke luxury, such as "draped in ermine" to describe someone in elegant clothing.
Phrasal Verbs:
There are no specific phrasal verbs with "ermine," but you might encounter phrases like "to wear ermine" in literature indicating someone is dressed in luxurious clothing.
Conclusion:
The word "ermine" is not just about the animal; it represents elegance and status in society.