How Do You Spell MINEVER?

Pronunciation: [mˈa͡ɪnvə] (IPA)

The word "minever" is a bit of a curiosity in the English language. It is a variant spelling of the word "miniver", which refers to the fur of the Siberian squirrel. The pronunciation of "minever" is often confused with "mine-ee-ver", but the correct pronunciation is actually "mi-NEE-ver" [mɪˈniːvər]. The spelling of this word can be attributed to its history as a medieval English term, which underwent many transformations over time. Regardless of the spelling, the fur remains a luxury item to this day.

MINEVER Meaning and Definition

1. Minever is a noun that refers to a small, weasel-like mammal belonging to the genus Mustela. This creature is commonly found in Europe and North America and is closely related to, but smaller than, the more well-known mink. The term "minever" is often used to specifically describe the fur of this animal, which is highly valued for its softness and luxurious appearance.

   The minever, or minever fur, is characterized by its dense, silky texture, and its color can range from a pale gray to a reddish-brown or almost black hue. Because of its fine quality, minever fur has historically been used in the production of high-end garments such as coats, hats, and accessories. In the past, it was especially favored by royalty and the affluent class due to its exceptional beauty and exclusivity.

   Today, the term "minever" is mainly used in historical and literary contexts to evoke images of opulence and luxury. It can also be found in the description of antique or vintage items that feature minever fur, highlighting their rarity and collectability.

   Overall, minever refers to both a small carnivorous mammal and its luxurious fur, which has long been prized for its softness and aesthetic appeal.

2. An animal, a variety of the ermine; also its fur.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MINEVER

• muniver
• miniver
• ninever
• kinever
• jinever
• munever
• mjnever
• mknever
• monever
• m9never
• m8never
• mibever
• mimever
• mijever
• mihever
• minwver
• mindver
• minrver
• min4ver
• min3ver

Etymology of MINEVER

The word "minever" comes from the Middle English term "mineveren", which was borrowed from the Anglo-Norman word "minivre". Anglo-Norman was a variety of Old Norman spoken by the Anglo-Norman population in England after the Norman Conquest in 1066. The term "minivre" itself derived from the Old French word "menu-vair", meaning "small vair". "Vair" referred to a type of fur or fur garment made from the grayish-blue winter fur of the squirrel. Over time, "minever" specifically became associated with the thinner and softer belly fur of the squirrel, often used as fur trim or lining.