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ker·mes | \ ˈkər-(ˌ)mēz 
\
\Definition of kermes
: the dried bodies of the females of various scale insects (genus Kermes) that are found on a Mediterranean oak (Quercus coccifera) and constitute a red dyestuff also : the dye
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Time Traveler for kermes
The first known use of kermes was in 1603
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