KERMES Meaning and
Definition
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Kermes is a noun that refers to a small, red or scarlet insect (Kermes vermilio) that produces a red dye traditionally used in textile dyeing. This insect belongs to the scale insect family, specifically the subfamily Kermesinae. It is typically found on evergreen oak trees, particularly in the Mediterranean region. The female kermes insect is wingless, about the size of a pea, and has a hard, rounded body covered in a waxy secretion that protects it from predators and environmental factors.
Historically, kermes has been highly valued for its vibrant red dye, known as crimson or carmine. It was extensively utilized in ancient and medieval times, with some evidence of its use dating back to the ancient Egyptians. The dye extraction process involves collecting the insects, drying them, and grinding them into powder or crushing them to extract the red pigment. This dye was widely used to color textiles, especially luxury items such as fabrics for royal garments, tapestries, and ecclesiastical vestments.
Today, synthetic alternatives have largely replaced natural kermes dye in commercial textile production due to its limited availability and higher cost. Nonetheless, the historical significance of kermes in the realm of natural dyes cannot be underestimated, as it holds a special place in the evolution of dyeing techniques and the development of vibrant red hues.
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• A roundish body of the bigness of a pea, containing a multitude of little distinct granules, which, when crushed, yield a scarlet juice-now known to be the dried bodies of the females of certain insects.
• One of the ores of antimony-so called from its deep cherry-red colour.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for KERMES
- mermes
- oermes
- kwrmes
- ksrmes
- kdrmes
- krrmes
- k4rmes
- k3rmes
- keemes
- kedmes
- kefmes
- ketmes
- ke5mes
- ke4mes
- kernes
- kerkes
- kerjes
- kermws
- kermss
- kermnes
Etymology of KERMES
The word "Kermes" has a fascinating etymology. It can be traced back to the Middle English term "kermes", which was borrowed from the Old French word "cramoise". In turn, "cramoise" was derived from the Arabic word "qirmiz" or "qirmizah", referring to a red dye obtained from the Kermes insect (scientific name: Kermes vermilio).
The Kermes insect is a small scale insect found on oak trees in certain regions of the Mediterranean. The female Kermes insects produce a crimson-colored dye, which was highly prized in ancient times for its vibrant hue. The dye was mainly used to produce red and crimson textiles, especially during the medieval period. Due to its significance in the textile industry and its origin from the Kermes insect, the word "kermes" became associated with the color red.
Similar spelling word for KERMES
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