How Do You Spell MINIVER?

Pronunciation: [mˈɪnɪvə] (IPA)

The word "miniver" is spelled with six letters, but its pronunciation involves more sounds than those that can be accounted for by the letters. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈmɪnɪvər/, with two syllables, the first of which is stressed. The "i" is pronounced as "ih", and "e" as "uh". The "v" sound is a voiced labiodental fricative, and the "r" sound is a voiced alveolar approximant. The word "miniver" is a shortened form of the term "miniver fur".

MINIVER Meaning and Definition

1. Miniver is a noun that refers to a type of luxurious white fur originally made from the winter coat of a weasel or stoat, but now predominantly produced using synthetic materials. The term can also describe a white fur lining or trimming used in the garments of royalty and the upper class during medieval times.

   The word "miniver" has its origins in Middle English and Middle French, derived from the Old French "menu vair," meaning "small squirrel." This denotes the animal from which this fur originated, as well as its perceived value and desirability. Traditionally, miniver furs were highly coveted and associated with wealth and prestige due to their rarity and the intricate process required for their production.

   In contemporary usage, miniver can encompass both the original animal fur and the synthetic fabric replicating its texture and appearance. It is commonly used in the creation of high-end fashion items, such as coats, stoles, and hats.

   Due to ethical and environmental concerns surrounding animal fur production, the use of genuine miniver has significantly declined, with synthetic alternatives becoming more prevalent. However, the word miniver continues to be used to describe any white fur-like material, regardless of its source.

   Overall, miniver encapsulates the notion of opulence and luxury associated with its historical use, while also reflecting the evolving fashion industry's emphasis on more sustainable alternatives.

2. See Minever.

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

Common Misspellings for MINIVER

• niniver
• kiniver
• jiniver
• muniver
• mjniver
• mkniver
• moniver
• m9niver
• m8niver
• mibiver
• mimiver
• mijiver
• mihiver
• minuver
• minjver
• minkver
• minover
• min9ver
• min8ver
• miniger

Etymology of MINIVER

The word "miniver" originally referred to a type of fur, specifically the white fur of the winter stoat or ermine, which was often used for the linings of ceremonial robes. It comes from the Middle English word "miniverre", which was borrowed from the Old French term "menu vair", meaning "small fur", derived from "vair", meaning "fur" or "squirrel". The Old French term itself was influenced by the Latin word "varius", meaning "variegated" or "spotted", likely due to the distinctive black-tipped tails of the ermines. Over time, "miniver" also came to be used to describe fabrics imitating this fur or the color associated with it.

Similar spelling words for MINIVER

• minibar,
• minipress.

Plural form of MINIVER is MINIVERS