WEASEL Meaning and
Definition
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Weasel is a noun that refers to a small, carnivorous mammal belonging to the Mustelidae family, in particular the genus Mustela. It is characterized by its long, slender body, short legs, and elongated neck. Weasels typically have a small head and round ears, and their fur can vary in color from brown to white, depending on the species and climate. They are renowned for their agility, speed, and ability to squeeze through narrow spaces, owing to their flexible bone structure.
The term "weasel" is often used metaphorically to describe a person who is cunning, deceitful, or slippery in nature. This usage stems from the creature's reputation for being sly and secretive, as weasels are known to be skilled hunters and thieves. Additionally, the verb form of "weasel" is sometimes used to describe the act of using dishonest tactics or manipulating information to avoid taking responsibility or to gain an unfair advantage.
In cultural contexts, the weasel has been associated with negative connotations, symbolizing cunningness and betrayal. In fables and folklore, weasels are often portrayed as conniving characters, scheming against other animals. Despite this negative reputation, weasels serve a vital ecological role, controlling populations of rodents and other small animals.
Overall, "weasel" encompasses both a specific species of mammal and a metaphorical term that denotes slyness and deception, based on the creature's characteristics and behaviors.
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A small carnivorous animal having short legs and a long slender body.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for WEASEL *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for WEASEL
Etymology of WEASEL
The word "weasel" originated from Old English "weosule", which in turn comes from Proto-Germanic "wisulô". The Proto-Germanic term likely came from the Proto-Indo-European root word "*wis-" meaning "to flit, fly". This is due to the weasel's quick and agile nature. Over time, the Old English word evolved into "wezel" and eventually became "weasel" in Modern English.
Idioms with the word WEASEL
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weasel out (of sth)
The idiom "weasel out (of sth)" means to avoid or evade a responsibility, commitment, or obligation in a cunning or deceitful manner. It suggests behaving in a dishonest or untrustworthy way to escape from a situation or commitment.
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weasel words
"Weasel words" is an idiom that refers to words or phrases used in order to avoid being straightforward or making a definite commitment. These words or phrases may be intentionally ambiguous or misleading, allowing the person using them to evade responsibility or manipulate the meaning of what they say. The term "weasel words" implies that they are similar to the behavior of weasels, which are known for their elusive nature.
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weasel out
The idiom "weasel out" refers to the act of evading responsibility or avoiding a commitment through cunning or deceitful means. It implies finding excuses or using manipulative tactics to escape from an obligation.
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catch a weasel asleep
The idiom "catch a weasel asleep" refers to a situation where one accomplishes something difficult or unlikely, as weasels are known for being alert and quick. It implies achieving success when the odds are against you, or unexpectedly catching an opportunity that is usually elusive or hard to come by.
Similar spelling words for WEASEL
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