Puppy

/ˈpʌpi/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A young dog, typically less than a year old.
I just adopted a cute little puppy from the animal shelter.
A term of endearment for a young dog.
Look at that puppy playing in the yard!
An informal term for a young or inexperienced person, especially in a specific field.
He's just a puppy in the world of business, still learning the ropes.

Etymology

Late Middle English, possibly from the word 'poup' which means a young dog.

Common Phrases and Expressions

puppy love
an infatuation or romantic attraction between young people
puppy eyes
a pleading look typically characterized by large, expressive eyes
let sleeping dogs lie
to avoid interfering in a situation that is currently stable

Related Words

dog
a domesticated carnivorous mammal
canine
relating to dogs or the family of dogs
pup
another term for puppy
bark
the sound made by a dog

Slang Meanings

A term of endearment for a significant other.
Hey puppy, how was your day?
Used to describe someone who is acting childish.
Stop being such a puppy and take the challenge seriously.