miniver

[ min-uh-ver ]

/ ˈmɪn ə vər /

(in the Middle Ages) a fur of white or spotted white and gray used for linings and trimmings. Compare vair(def 1).

any white fur, particularly that of the ermine, used especially on robes of state.

Origin of miniver

1250–1300; Middle English meniver < Middle French menu vair small vair; see menu

What she had expected to see the heir attired in, Mrs. Layne never afterwards settled with herself: perhaps purple and miniver.

Johnny Ludlow, Second Series |Mrs. Henry Wood
Miss Miniver followed with an expression of perplexity, her mouth shaped to futile expositions.

Ann Veronica |H. G. Wells
"Could not they fetch a few ermine and miniver skins while they are at it," suggested Priscilla.

Standish of Standish |Jane G. Austin
It is a common mistake to show the miniver turn-up without the velvet Cap above it, which is obviously absurd.

English Heraldic Book-stamps |Cyril Davenport

Later a kind of "spencer" jacket, or waistcoat, was worn, faced and bordered with miniver or other fur.

Chats on Costume |G. Woolliscroft Rhead

miniver

/ (ˈmɪnɪvə) /

white fur, used in ceremonial costumes

C13: from Old French menu vair, from menu small + vair variegated fur, vair