"ferret" Definition

Definitions for the word "ferret" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
An animal of the Weasel family (Mustela / Putorius furo), about fourteen inches in length, of a pale yellow or white color, with red eyes. It is a native of Africa, but has been domesticated in Europe. Ferrets are used to drive rabbits and rats out of their holes.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
To drive or hunt out of a lurking place, as a ferret does the cony; to search out by patient and sagacious efforts; -- often used with out; as, to ferret out a secret.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
A kind of narrow tape, usually made of woolen; sometimes of cotton or silk; -- called also ferreting.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
The iron used for trying the melted glass to see if is fit to work, and for shaping the rings at the mouths of bottles.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
Small polecat used in catching rabbits, rats, etc. v. 1 hunt with ferrets. 2 (often foll. By out, about, etc.) Rummage; search out (secrets, criminals, etc.). [latin fur thief]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "ferret" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "ferret" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
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