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Fur Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฆ
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fur

[fษœหr ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal skin

The short, fine, soft hair of certain animals, such as a cat, rabbit, or beaver, used for making garments, lining, or trimming. Fur is valued for its warmth and luxurious feel.

Synonyms

coat, pelage, skin.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fur

Typically used to describe the soft hair covering the bodies of animals, or clothing made from this material. Often associated with warmth and luxury.

  • The cat's fur was very soft and silky
  • She wore a fur coat to the winter gala
pelage

Scientific term usually used by biologists or in formal contexts to describe the fur, hair, or wool covering mammals. Less common in everyday speech.

  • The pelage of the Arctic fox changes color with the seasons
  • Researchers studied the pelage characteristics of different mammal species
coat

Can refer to a piece of outerwear designed to keep someone warm, or it can also describe the outer layer of an animal's fur. Used broadly in both fashion and animal descriptions.

  • He put on his coat before going outside
  • The horse has a shiny brown coat
skin

Refers to the outer layer of the body in humans and animals. In the context of animals, it can also refer to the hide, especially when discussing materials like leather.

  • She applied lotion to her dry skin
  • The snake shed its skin

Examples of usage

  • Her coat was made of the finest fur.
  • The hat was lined with rabbit fur.
  • The trim on the gloves was made of mink fur.
Context #2 | Noun

fake material

A material made to look like fur, often used as a cheaper alternative to real animal fur. Faux fur is commonly used in clothing and accessories.

Synonyms

faux fur, imitation fur, synthetic fur.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fur

Used when describing the natural, soft hair covering of animals, often used in clothing items. It can be controversial due to animal rights concerns.

  • Her winter coat is made of real fur.
  • The cat's fur was soft and fluffy.
faux fur

Used when referring to synthetic materials designed to look and feel like animal fur. Often promoted as a cruelty-free alternative to real fur.

  • She bought a faux fur jacket to wear to the party.
  • Faux fur throws can be a stylish addition to home decor.
imitation fur

Similar to faux fur, it describes synthetic materials that mimic the appearance of animal fur. This term is typically used interchangeably with faux fur.

  • Her coat made of imitation fur looks almost like real mink.
  • They opted for imitation fur to avoid using animal products.
synthetic fur

Refers to man-made fibers that replicate the texture and appearance of animal fur. This term is often used in technical or manufacturing contexts.

  • The designers used synthetic fur for the costumes to ensure no animals were harmed.
  • Synthetic fur is often more affordable and easier to maintain than real fur.

Examples of usage

  • The jacket was made of faux fur.
  • She prefers to wear faux fur rather than real fur.
Context #3 | Verb

cover with fur

To line or trim with fur, or to cover with fur-like material. Fur can be added to garments, accessories, or household items for decorative or functional purposes.

Synonyms

cover, line, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fur

Given twice, explanation and examples remain the same as the first entry.

  • She loved the soft feel of the rabbit's fur
  • His coat had a luxurious fur lining
line

Often used to describe an interior covering or layer, such as in clothing or containers.

  • The jacket was lined with fleece for extra warmth
  • The chef used parchment paper to line the baking tray
trim

Usually refers to an added border or decoration, often used in clothing, furniture, or various designs.

  • Her dress had a delicate lace trim
  • The car's interior featured leather trim
cover

Used broadly to describe something that lies over or conceals another thing, applicable in many situations from books to bed sheets.

  • He pulled the cover over the furniture
  • The book's cover was brightly illustrated

Examples of usage

  • The designer decided to fur the collar of the coat.
  • She fur the edges of the pillow with faux fur.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Fur has been used in clothing for thousands of years, especially in colder climates for protection against the elements.
  • Many indigenous cultures view fur as a symbol of wealth and status, often using it in traditional garments and rituals.

Animal Biology

  • Fur is essential for insulation, helping mammals regulate their body temperature.
  • Different animals have different fur typesโ€”like the dense undercoat of a polar bear which keeps it warm in icy habitats.

Ethical Considerations

  • The fur industry is controversial, with many advocating for animal rights and against the use of real fur in fashion.
  • Alternatives like faux fur are becoming more popular, providing a cruelty-free option with a similar look and feel.

Fashion and Trends

  • Fur coats were once considered high fashion, popular among celebrities and the elite during the 20th century.
  • In recent years, there has been a shift toward faux fur, influenced by changing attitudes towards animal welfare.

Origin of 'fur'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'furre,' which means the coat of an animal.
  • It is related to the Latin word 'fur,' meaning 'to steal,' likely referring to the way furs were once taken from animals.

The word 'fur' originated from the Old English word 'furr', which referred to the hair on an animal's skin. Fur has been used by humans for thousands of years for warmth and protection. In ancient times, fur garments were a symbol of wealth and status. Today, there is a growing concern over the ethics of using real animal fur, leading to the popularity of faux fur as a more sustainable and cruelty-free alternative.

See also: furrow, furry, fury.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,739, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.