das Frettchen
Translation
ferret
Examples
Frettchen sind sehr neugierige Tiere.
Ferrets are very curious animals.
Sie hält sich ein Frettchen als Haustier.
She keeps a ferret as a pet.
Grammar Patterns
ein Frettchen als Haustier halten to keep a ferret as a pet Many people keep ferrets as pets.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Iltis (biologically related); Other mustelids: Wiesel (weasel), Marder (marten)
Etymology
From Old French 'fuiret', a diminutive of 'fuiron' (thief), alluding to their sly nature. The German '-chen' is also a diminutive suffix.
Memory Tips
The 'frett' part sounds like the English word 'fret'. Imagine a ferret fretting, moving around quickly and nervously, which fits its character.