Pelt

/pɛlt/ noun

Definition

The skin and fur of an animal, often used to make clothing or blankets.

Etymology

From Old English 'pell' and Old Norse 'pell,' meaning a skin or hide. The word evolved specifically to describe animal fur used for trade and clothing in medieval times.

Kelly Says

The fur trade literally shaped North American history—the Hudson's Bay Company became one of the world's most powerful corporations because beaver pelts were so valuable in Europe for making felt hats.

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