Pronunciation: [mɛɹˈiːnə͡ʊ] (IPA) 
The word "merino" is often misspelled as "marino". The correct spelling is M-E-R-I-N-O, with an 'E' instead of an 'A'. The IPA phonetic transcription for the word "merino" is /məˈriːnəʊ/. The 'e' is pronounced as a schwa sound, followed by a long 'e' sound, and the 'i' is pronounced as a short 'i' sound. The 'o' at the end is pronounced as a long 'o' sound. Merino is a type of high-quality wool that comes from merino sheep.
Merino refers to a breed of sheep that originated in Spain and is known for its fine, soft, and tightly curled wool. The term "merino" can also be used to describe the wool itself, which is highly valued for its exceptional quality.
Merino sheep are medium-sized animals with white or off-white fleece. They are prized for their ability to adapt to a wide range of climates, including both hot and cold environments. Additionally, they are renowned for their high fertility rates, making them a popular choice for wool production worldwide. Merino wool is highly sought after due to its unique characteristics, including its fine diameter, crimped structure, and excellent elasticity. It is incredibly soft, lightweight, and has a natural elasticity that helps it retain its shape.
The versatility of merino wool makes it ideal for various applications, from luxury clothing and textiles to activewear. It is highly sought after for its excellent insulation properties that provide warmth in colder climates while also being breathable and moisture-wicking, ensuring comfort in warmer conditions. Furthermore, merino wool possesses natural odor-resistant properties, making it suitable for outdoor activities and extended wear.
In summary, merino refers to a breed of sheep renowned for its high-quality wool, often used to describe the wool itself. Merino wool is prized for its softness, fineness, elasticity, and versatility, making it highly sought after for various textile and clothing applications.
A breed of sheep once peculiar to Spain; a fabric made from the wool of the merino sheep.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "merino" comes from the Spanish language. It is derived from the term "merino sheep", which refers to a breed of sheep that originated in the Kingdom of Leon in medieval Spain. The term "merino" itself is believed to have derived from the Latin word "mĕrīnus", meaning "of wool". The Merino sheep were highly valued for their fine and soft wool, which made them extremely prized and sought after for their fleece. Over time, the word "merino" came to be associated with the wool produced by these sheep and later extended to refer to anything related to this valuable and luxurious wool, including textiles and clothing items made from it.
