Ferret
Noun
Definition: A domesticated albino variety of the polecat, typically bred for hunting rats and rabbits.
Synonyms: Polecat, Mustela putorius furo
Antonyms: N/a
- He keeps a ferret as a pet.
- The ferret was trained to catch rabbits.
Verb
Definition: To search or discover by persistent investigation.
Synonyms: Search, Hunt, Uncover
Antonyms: N/a
- The detective ferreted out the truth about the crime.
- She managed to ferret out the hidden documents.
Etymology:
The noun 'ferret' is derived from Middle English 'furet', from Old French 'furet', diminutive of 'fure', ultimately from Latin 'fur' meaning "thief". The verb 'ferret' is derived from Middle English 'ferret', from Middle French 'fureter', ultimately from the same Latin origin.
Historical Usage:The noun 'ferret' can be traced back to the 14th century while the verb 'ferret' has been in use since the late 16th century.
Related Idioms:
"To ferret something out"
Explanation:To discover or find something, particularly through persistent searching or investigation.
Misconceptions:
Confusing the noun 'ferret' with the verb 'ferret'.
Explanation:'Ferret' is both a noun and a verb, but they have different meanings. The noun refers to a type of animal, while the verb relates to searching or investigating.