fur
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /fɜːr/
KK: /fɜr/
noun
Definition
The soft, thick hair that covers the skin of some animals, often used for clothing or decoration.
Example
She wore a beautiful coat made of fur to the winter party.
Conversation
I saw a beautiful coat made of fur at the mall yesterday.
Really? I love how warm and soft they look.
Yeah, but I wonder if it's ethical to wear fur these days.
That's a good point; many people prefer faux options now.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pelt
coat
hide
Antonyms
skin
baldness
exposure
transitive verb
Definition
To cover something with a layer of soft animal hair or to provide fur clothing.
Example
The designer decided to fur the coat with luxurious mink.
Tense Forms
Past: furred
Past Participle: furred
Conversation
I saw this amazing coat that was fur lined and so warm.
That sounds really cozy! I love fur-lined jackets.
Yeah, I think I might fur my old jacket to give it a new look.
Root Explanation
The word 'fur' originates from Latin 'fur' (meaning thief), which is derived from the verb 'furari' (meaning to steal). The connection arises from the idea of stealing animal pelts or skins, which were valuable commodities. Thus, 'fur' refers to the soft, hairy covering of animals, often used for clothing or decoration.
Memory Tip
Think of the Latin word for thief, 'fur', and remember that 'fur' refers to the valuable soft covering of animals that might be taken or 'stolen'.
Visually Confused Words
four
ur
fu