birman: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, technical (in cat breeding/zoology contexts).
Quick answer
What does “birman” mean?
A domestic cat of a long-haired breed with blue eyes and white paws, originally from Burma (Myanmar).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A domestic cat of a long-haired breed with blue eyes and white paws, originally from Burma (Myanmar).
1) A person from Burma or of Burmese descent (rare). 2) The breed of cat itself.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in core meaning. The term is equally uncommon in both varieties.
Connotations
Connotes pedigree cats and specific cat fancy/show culture in both varieties.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language. Found almost exclusively in contexts related to cat breeds.
Grammar
How to Use “birman” in a Sentence
The Birman (is a breed of cat).We have a beautiful Birman.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “birman” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Birman standard requires specific colour points.
- Her Birman kitten won first prize at the national show.
American English
- The Birman standard requires specific color points.
- Her Birman kitten won best in show.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Potential use in pet industry marketing materials.
Academic
Used in zoology/animal husbandry papers on feline genetics or breed standards.
Everyday
Rare, except among cat enthusiasts and pet owners.
Technical
Used in cat fancier association literature, veterinary breed specifications, and show catalogs.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “birman”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “birman”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “birman”
- Confusing 'Birman' with 'Burmese' (a different, short-haired cat breed).
- Misspelling as 'Birmese' or 'Burman'.
- Using it as a common noun for any cat from Myanmar.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. They are distinct breeds. The Birman is long-haired with colour points and white paws, while the Burmese is short-haired and typically a solid colour.
The breed is said to have originated in Burma (Myanmar), but its modern development took place primarily in France in the early 20th century.
It is an alternative, full name for the Birman breed, referencing the legend that they were temple cats in Burma.
Extremely rarely in modern English. 'Burmese' (for ethnicity) or 'Myanma'/'from Myanmar' (for nationality) are the standard terms.
A domestic cat of a long-haired breed with blue eyes and white paws, originally from Burma (Myanmar).
Birman is usually formal, technical (in cat breeding/zoology contexts). in register.
Birman: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbɜːmən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbɝːmən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None directly associated]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'BIRMan' = Beautiful, Intelligent, Regal cat from MANy years ago in Burma.
Conceptual Metaphor
The Birman is often described in terms of nobility or sacredness due to its legendary origin story (temple cat).
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'Birman' most accurately defined as?