What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ermine
Example
The ermine's coat turns white in the winter to blend in with the snow. [ermine: noun]
Example
The queen wore an ermine-trimmed robe for the coronation ceremony. [ermine-trimmed: adjective]
stoat
Example
The stoat is also known as the short-tailed weasel. [stoat: noun]
Example
The hat was made of stoat fur and looked very warm. [stoat fur: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stoat is more commonly used than ermine in everyday language, especially when referring to the animal itself. However, ermine is more commonly used when referring to the fur or coat made from the animal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ermine and stoat?
Both ermine and stoat are associated with formal and luxurious contexts due to their use in fur clothing and accessories. However, ermine is more closely associated with royalty and nobility, making it slightly more formal in tone.
