From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :
Mink \Mink\ (m[i^][ng]k), n. [Cf. 2d Minx.]
1. (Zool.) A carnivorous mammal of the genus Mustela
(foremrly Putorius), allied to the weasel. The European
mink is Mustela lutreola. The common American mink
({Mustela vison) varies from yellowish brown to black.
Its fur is highly valued. Called also minx, nurik, and
vison.
[1913 Webster +PJC]
2. The fur of the mink[1]. Together with sable, it is one of
the most expensive furs not taken from endangerd species.
When the fur is taken from animals grown on a farm, it
called ranch mink.
[PJC]