miniver

or min·e·ver

[ min-uh-ver ]

noun

1. (in the Middle Ages) a fur of white or spotted white and gray used for linings and trimmings. Compare vair ( def 1 ).
2. any white fur, particularly that of the ermine, used especially on robes of state.

miniver

/ ˈmɪnɪvə /

noun

1. white fur, used in ceremonial costumes

Word History and Origins

Origin of miniver¹

1250–1300; Middle English meniver < Middle French menu vair small vair; menu

Word History and Origins

Origin of miniver¹

C13: from Old French menu vair, from menu small + vair variegated fur, vair

Example Sentences

Sir Bliant, who had been staying the night, was dressed in scarlet furred with miniver.

From Literature

His grey workhouse coat braver than purple and miniver?

From Project Gutenberg

When this fur is symmetrically spotted with black lamb pieces it is styled miniver, in which form it is used at the grand coronation functions of British sovereigns.

From Project Gutenberg

The royal Parliamentary robes with all their glitter of gold and glow of crimson were laid upon it, for the Queen wore only mourning hues, a robe of deep purple velvet, trimmed with white miniver.

From Project Gutenberg

Budge, or lambskin, and miniver were provided for the trimming thereof, and the colour appears to have varied in different reigns, but for a long time green prevailed.

From Project Gutenberg