A weasel, Mustela erminea, found in northern latitudes; its dark brown fur turns white in winter (apart from the black tip of the tail).
The white fur of this animal, traditionally seen as a symbol of purity and used for judges' robes.
(by extension) The office of a judge.
A white field with black spots.
To clothe with ermine.
: In blazon, of the colour hermine (white with black spots).