Meaning & Definition of word "Dog"

Dog

/dɔg/

noun:

  • 1. A domesticated carnivorous mammal (Canis lupus familiaris) that typically has a long snout, an acute sense of smell, and a barking, growling, or whining voice, often used as a pet or for work.
    • Example: My dog loves to fetch the ball when I throw it.
  • 2. A person who is regarded with contempt or dislike.
    • Example: He treated his friends poorly, and now they think of him as a dog.
  • 3. A male dog, especially a hound or a working dog.
    • Example: The dog was bred for its hunting abilities.
  • 4. Any of various mammals resembling a dog, including the wolf, fox, and jackal.
    • Example: The wolf is a wild ancestor of the domestic dog.
  • 5. An obnoxious or offensive person.
    • Example: You’re such a dog for making fun of her in front of everyone.

verb:

  • 1. To follow or track (someone) closely and persistently.
    • Example: The reporter dogged the celebrity for weeks.
  • 2. To waste time; to idle.
    • Example: He was just dogging around the office instead of getting his work done.

Etymology

The word 'dog' comes from Old English 'docga', a term of uncertain origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

dog days:

The hottest days of summer.

reach for the dog:

To strive for something unattainable.

dog tired:

Extremely tired; exhausted.

barking up the wrong tree:

To pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action.

Related Words

puppy:

A young dog.

hound:

A type of dog used for hunting.

canine:

Relating to dogs.

Slang Meanings of dog

Meaning: A friend or buddy.

Example Sentence: What's up, dog?

Meaning: An unpleasant or contemptible person.

Example Sentence: Don't be a dog about it!

Meaning: An unattractive person.

Example Sentence: He thinks he's a ten, but he's really a dog.

Meaning: An outdated or boring thing.

Example Sentence: That movie was a dog.