Pronunciation: [ˈɜːmɪn] (IPA) 
Ermine is a word with a unique spelling that may seem confusing to many. The pronunciation of ermine is [ɜːmɪn], with the stress on the first syllable. This word is spelled with an 'e' rather than an 'i' as it is derived from a French word 'hermine'. It refers to the white fur of a weasel-like animal, found in cold regions. It is often used in the context of royalty, where it represents nobility and prestige.
Ermine is a noun that refers to a small mammal native to northern regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Scientifically known as Mustela erminea, it belongs to the weasel family, and it is closely related to other mustelids like ferrets, minks, and stoats.
The ermine has a stout body, short legs, and a long slender neck. It measures around 20-30 centimeters in length, excluding the tail, which can reach up to 12 centimeters. Its fur is considered its most distinctive feature, featuring thick, soft, and snow-white fur during the winter months. In the summer, the ermine's fur transitions to a brown color, aside from the black tip of its tail. This distinctive black-tipped tail is one of the key characteristics distinguishing it from other small mammals.
Ermines are primarily carnivorous predators and are known to feed on a variety of small mammals, birds, eggs, and insects. Due to their excellent climbing and swimming abilities, they are able to hunt and catch prey in various environments, including forests, grasslands, and near bodies of water.
Apart from its animal definition, ermine also has a cultural connection. Historically, ermine fur has been highly coveted for its luxurious and elegant appearance. It holds notable symbolism in heraldry and has been associated with royalty and nobility in many cultures. The term "ermine" is also used to describe the white fur or fur trimming made from the ermine's winter coat, which is often used in the creation of ceremonial robes, coats, or hats.
An animal of the weasel kind, of a white colour, the fur of which, as being used for the robes of judges, is often employed to denote the office or dignity of a judge; an emblem of purity and of honour without stain.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "ermine" is derived from the Old French word "hermine", which ultimately comes from the Latin term "harmīna". In Latin, this word referred to the fur of a stoat or weasel, often used to make white fur robes. Over time, the term "ermine" came to specifically represent the white winter coat of the stoat, which was highly valued and sought after for its softness and beauty.
