Translation guide
The word 'ermine' refers to a stoat in its white winter coat, or the white fur itself, often associated with royalty. In Japanese, the animal is usually called オコジョ or シロテン, while the fur is アーミン or シロテンの毛皮.
ermine (animal)
ermine (fur)
Common word for stoat/ermine, especially in its white winter coat. Used in general contexts.
I saw an ermine in Hokkaido.
Literally 'white marten', specifically refers to the ermine as a white-furred animal. More technical or descriptive.
The ermine's fur turns white in winter.
An older or regional term for weasel-like animals, sometimes used for ermine. Rare in modern standard Japanese.
It used to be called a 'yama-itachi'.
Referring to the white fur used for clothing or decoration, especially in royal contexts.
Loanword from English, used for the fur in fashion or heraldry. Common in contexts like royal robes.
The king's cloak is trimmed with ermine.
Descriptive phrase meaning 'white marten fur'. More explicit than アーミン.
Uses the more common animal name, but less typical for fur trade contexts.
A stole made of ermine fur.
Use オコジョ for the living animal, and アーミン for the fur in fashion or heraldry. シロテン can be used for both but is less common in everyday speech.
Ermine fur is a luxury item.