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Marten Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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marten

[ˈmɑːrtən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

small carnivorous mammal

A marten is a small carnivorous mammal belonging to the weasel family. It has a long, slender body, short legs, and a bushy tail. Martens are known for their agile movements and sharp teeth, which they use for hunting small animals.

Synonyms

fitch, polecat, sable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
marten

Typically used in discussions about wildlife, particularly small forest animals. Martens are also referenced in contexts pertaining to fur trade or describing the animal's behavior.

  • The marten is known for its agility and ability to climb trees.
  • The fur of the marten is highly prized in the fur industry.
sable

Predominantly used in the context of high-end fur fashion and luxury products. This word can occasionally be found in literature or art to evoke a sense of elegance or opulence.

  • She wore a luxurious sable coat to the gala.
  • The painting depicted a landscape covered in sable-colored shadows.
polecat

Generally used in wildlife or zoology discussions, 'polecat' can also be used metaphorically to describe a deceitful person, which gives it a negative connotation.

  • The polecat is a nocturnal animal known for its strong scent.
  • He's a real polecat, always trying to cheat people.
fitch

Often used in the context of the fur trade, 'fitch' refers to the fur of the European polecat. It's used less frequently in casual conversation and more in specialized settings.

  • This coat is made from fitch fur.
  • Fitch furs were very popular in medieval Europe.

Examples of usage

  • The marten is skilled at climbing trees to catch birds and squirrels.
  • Martens are also excellent swimmers, able to catch fish in rivers and lakes.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Ecology

  • Martens play a vital role in their ecosystem by controlling small mammal populations.
  • They are skilled climbers, which helps them find food in trees and escape from predators.
  • These creatures are often solitary and prefer to live in wooded areas with ample cover from predators.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, the fur of the marten is highly prized for making warm clothing.
  • Folklore in various regions portrays martens as clever and resourceful animals.
  • Their adaptability has made them popular subjects in wildlife documentaries and nature shows.

Behavior

  • Martens are known for their playful nature, often seen jumping and climbing with agility.
  • They are omnivores, eating fruits, small mammals, and birds, showing versatility in feeding habits.
  • Their vocalizations include chirps and growls, especially during mating season.

Conservation Status

  • Some marten species are facing habitat loss due to urban development and logging.
  • Conservative efforts are in place in certain areas to protect their natural habitats.
  • Martens are generally not endangered, but awareness is needed to sustain their populations.

Origin of 'marten'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'marten' comes from the Old French word 'marmot' which refers to the animal's fur.
  • It is related to the Latin word 'martes,' which also refers to various species of this animal.
  • Variations of the name exist in several languages, showcasing its presence in different cultures.

The word 'marten' originated from the Old English word 'mearth', which referred to the animal. It has been used in English since the 14th century. Martens have been valued for their fur, which has led to hunting and trapping of these animals. Conservation efforts are now in place to protect martens and their habitats.

See also: mart, martial, Martian, martlet, martyr.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,093, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.