# fitch

/ˈfɪtʃ/ (US) · /fˈɪtʃ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fitch
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a small, furry animal from Europe that looks like a weasel. It is also the name for the hair of this animal when it is used to make high-quality paintbrushes.

For teachers: the European polecat, Mustela putorius, or its fur. In artistic contexts, refers to the hair of this animal used in the manufacture of fine brushes.

## Examples

- The artist used a fitch brush for the fine details.
- Traditional brush makers still value fitch hair for its unique combination of stiffness and flexibility in oil painting.
- While modern synthetic fibers have largely replaced animal hair, some restoration experts insist on using a genuine fitch to replicate the specific texture of eighteenth-century portraiture.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'fitch brush' or 'fitch hair'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.