1. a red dye obtained from the dried bodies of female scale insects
Usage: historical; textile industry
2. the scale insect from which this red dye is obtained
Usage: entomology

Examples

• Kermes was highly valued in medieval Europe for dyeing luxury fabrics.
• The ancient Romans used kermes to create brilliant red colors in their textiles.
• Before synthetic dyes, kermes insects were harvested from oak trees.
• The kermes trade was an important source of income for Mediterranean communities.
• Museums display tapestries colored with traditional kermes dye.
• Female kermes insects attach themselves to oak bark to feed.