Definition

1. Noun:
   • A dark brown mustelid of woodlands of Eurasia that gives off an unpleasant odor when threatened: "Fitch" refers to a specific mammal, also commonly known as the European polecat or foul marten, characterized by its dark brown fur and defensive ability to release a strong-smelling secretion.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The naturalist observed a fitch hunting for rodents at the forest's edge.
  • The fur trade historically valued the fitch for its pelt.

Advanced Usage

• "Fitch fur" or "fitch skin": Refers to the pelt of this animal, historically used in clothing.
  • The trim on the vintage coat was made from genuine fitch.

Variants and Related Words

• Polecat: The more common name for the same animal ().
• Foul marten: An archaic term for the fitch, referencing its odor.
• Ferret: A domesticated form of the European polecat. While related, a ferret is not typically called a "fitch."

Synonyms

• European polecat: The standard biological name.
• Foul marten: An archaic synonym.

Notes on Meaning

• The word "fitch" is primarily zoological and historical. In modern contexts, "European polecat" is the more precise and common term. It is not used to refer to brushes or paintbrushes in contemporary English; those definitions are obsolete.

Noun

1. dark brown mustelid of woodlands of Eurasia that gives off an unpleasant odor when threatened