Weasel: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to someone who is deceitful or sneaky. Often has a negative connotation.

• He tried to weasel his way out of the blame.
• She is such a weasel, you can't trust her.

Typically used when discussing wildlife or more specifically, its fur, which changes color with the seasons. Common in nature documentaries.

• The stoat changes to a white coat in winter.
• Stoats are effective predators in their habitat.

Used when talking about seeking out or finding something persistently. Can also refer to the pet.

• She managed to ferret out the secret.
• He owns a cute ferret as a pet.

Used primarily when discussing wildlife or fur. Common in discussions about nature or the fashion industry.

• The marten is known for its beautiful fur.
• Martens are shy animals found in woodlands.

Used to describe someone who is sneaky, deceitful, or who avoids responsibility in a sly manner. May have a slightly negative connotation but often in a more playful or less serious context.

• He weaseled his way out of doing the chores again
• You can't trust him; he's a bit of a weasel

Used to describe someone who lies or tricks others, generally to gain some benefit. Strong negative connotation.

• He is nothing but a deceiver, always making false promises
• Don't believe anything he says; he's a known deceiver

Used for someone who betrays their country or a group they belong to, often involving a breach of trust and loyalty. Very strong negative connotation.

• Judas Iscariot is often considered the most famous traitor in history
• He was branded a traitor for leaking confidential information

Used in situations where someone betrays another person, especially by pretending to be a friend but acting against them secretly. Strongly negative connotation.

• She thought he was her friend, but he turned out to be a backstabber
• Watch out for backstabbers in the office

Used when someone tries to avoid giving a direct answer or escaping responsibility, often in a sneaky or dishonest way. This word often has a negative connotation.

• Stop trying to weasel out of answering the question.
• He weaseled his way out of the promise he made.

Appropriate for situations where someone is escaping from something or avoiding it, often in a way that is meant to be deceptive. This word can have a negative connotation, especially in formal or legal contexts.

• He tried to evade the police by driving through side streets.
• She was accused of trying to evade taxes.

Appropriate when someone is actively staying away from something or someone, usually for practical or protective reasons. This word is neutral and commonly used.

• She tried to avoid the heavy traffic by taking a different route.
• He avoided eye contact during the meeting.

Used when someone quickly moves to avoid being hit or dealing with an issue, can imply nimbleness or cleverness. Sometimes carries a mildly negative connotation.

• He managed to dodge the ball just in time.
• She dodged the question by changing the subject.