Ermine Meaning and Definition
Ermine
Pronunciation
/ˈɜːrmɪn/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
An ermine is a small, carnivorous mammal of the weasel family (Mustelidae), characterized by its thick, smoky-gray fur and bushy tail, and is often associated with luxury and nobility.
Examples
1. “The queen wore an ermine-trimmed cloak to the coronation ceremony.”
2. “The price of fur, particularly ermine, skyrocketed during the 17th century.”
Synonyms
1. Weasel
2. Stoechus
3. Mustela arminea
Antonyms
1. Herbivore
2. Rodent
Additional Information
Ermines are found in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America, and are known for their habit of stealing food from other animals, often stealing rodents from other predators. They are also hunted for their luxurious fur, which has been a symbol of status and wealth for centuries.
In heraldry, ermine is a symbol of purity and nobility, often depicted as a black background with a white ermine’s head, typically on the right-hand side of a coat of arms. The ermine’s association with the British monarchy is reflected in the phrase “cloth of ermine,” referring to the ceremonial robes worn by a sovereign or high-ranking official.
Ermines are solitary animals and have a relatively small geographic range compared to other mustelids, but they are highly adapted to their environment and play a vital role in controlling populations of small mammals and insects.
Despite their historical significance and luxury status, modern attitudes towards ermines are shifting, with many viewing the fur trade as inhumane and questioning the ethics of wearing their skin. As a result, there is a growing trend towards more sustainable and eco-friendly fashion choices, moving away from the traditional use of ermine fur in haute couture.
Ermines are often paired with other animals, particularly moths and rabbits, to illustrate their habits and characteristics. For example, the black-and-white ermine pattern on a stag’s antlers is often seen as a metaphor for the animal’s ability to navigate and thrive in challenging environments.
Etymology
The word “Ermine” is derived from the Old French “ermine,” which is itself derived from the Latin “arminium,” referring to the weasel family. The term has been used to describe various species of weasels, including the European ermine (Mustela arminea) and the steppe ermine (Mustela eversmanni).
Usage Notes
The word “Ermine” can be used in a variety of contexts, including historical, cultural, and scientific discussions. When referring to the animal, it is essential to use the correct species name, such as Mustela arminea. In heraldry, ermine is often used symbolically, while in fashion, it has been associated with luxury and excess.
When writing about ermines, it is crucial to consider the historical context and the animal’s ecological role in different environments. It is also essential to acknowledge the controversies surrounding the fur trade and to respect the animal’s cultural significance in various societies.
Cultural References
The ermine has appeared in various forms of art and literature, often symbolizing wealth, status, and nobility. In Shakespeare’s play “The Taming of the Shrew,” the character Christopher Sly is described as wearing ermine, highlighting the animal’s association with luxury and power.
In John Steinbeck’s novel “Of Mice and Men,” the character Curley’s wife wears an ermine-trimmed coat, emphasizing her fashion sense and connection to the wealthy elite.
The ermine has also been featured in various coats of arms and family crests, often representing purity, nobility, or courage.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
The phrase “to wrap oneself in ermine” means to cover oneself in luxury or to be surrounded by symbols of wealth and power.
“Ermine cloak” is a metaphor for something that is associated with nobility or high-ranking status.
“Ermine-lined” means covered or surrounded by ermine fur, often used to describe something luxurious or of high quality.
Collocations
Ermines are often collocated with words or phrases that emphasize their luxurious or symbolic nature, such as fur, fur coat, cloak, or trim.
They can also be paired with words or phrases related to their habitat or ecological role, such as forest, snow, or prey.
Frequency of Use
The word “Ermine” is less commonly used in modern language compared to related terms like “weasel” or “furrier”. However, it is still used in specific contexts, such as historical or cultural discussions, and in references to luxury or nobility.
The term “Ermine” has remained relatively stable in its usage over the years, but its frequency may vary depending on the context and cultural significance assigned to the animal.
Common Misspellings
The word “Ermine” can be misspelled as Ermin, Ermina, or Ermines. Each of these variations has a slightly different connotation or context, but they are generally used interchangeably in everyday language.