Meaning & Definition of word "Weasel"

Weasel

/ˈwiː.zəl/

noun:

  • 1. A small, slender-bodied carnivorous mammal of the genus Mustela, known for its playful and agile nature.
    • Example: The weasel darted through the grass in search of prey.
  • 2. A deceitful or treacherous person.
    • Example: He was regarded as a weasel for his underhanded tactics in business.

verb:

  • 1. To evade or avoid responsibility or duty through deceitful or indirect means.
    • Example: She managed to weasel out of the meeting by claiming illness.

Etymology

The word 'weasel' comes from Old English 'wēaswēl', related to various Germanic and Proto-Indo-European roots.

Common Phrases and Expressions

weasel words:

Ambiguous or misleading language meant to evade responsibility.

weasel out:

To avoid a commitment or responsibility in a sneaky manner.

Related Words

ferret:

A domesticated form of the European polecat, often used for hunting.

stoat:

A small carnivorous mammal related to the weasel, known for its brown fur, which turns white in winter.

Slang Meanings of weasel

Meaning: A person who is sly and untrustworthy.

Example Sentence: That guy is such a weasel; you can't count on him for anything.

Meaning: To escape a situation through deceitful means.

Example Sentence: He weaseled his way out of the job by lying about his qualifications.