Dog
/dɒɡ/
Definitions
2 meaningsA domesticated mammal of the family Canidae, often kept as a pet or used for work.
/dɒɡ/
A domesticated canid, typically used for companionship or work.
My dog loves to play fetch in the park.
💡 Simply: A dog is a furry animal that people often keep as pets. They're known for being loyal and playful, and they love treats and belly rubs! Like a best friend you can always count on.
👶 For kids: A dog is a furry friend that barks and wags its tail! They love to play and be with their humans.
More Examples
She has a friendly golden retriever dog.
The dog barked at the mailman.
How It's Used
"The dog barked at the mail carrier."
"She loves to take her dog for walks in the park."
"The greyhound is a dog that often used in racing."
To pursue relentlessly or harass persistently.
/dɒɡ/
To follow or harass persistently.
The reporters dogged the politician for a statement.
💡 Simply: To 'dog' someone means to follow them around or bother them. Like when you're trying to avoid someone, but they just won't leave you alone!
👶 For kids: To dog someone means to follow them around and be annoying.
More Examples
The scandal dogged his career.
He was dogged by his past mistakes.
How It's Used
"The paparazzi dogged the celebrity's every move."
"The journalists dogged him with questions."
Idioms & expressions
dog-eat-dog
Characterized by fierce competition and self-interest.
"The corporate world is often described as dog-eat-dog."
let sleeping dogs lie
To avoid stirring up trouble by not mentioning a subject that could cause conflict.
"I decided to let sleeping dogs lie and didn't bring up the argument."
every dog has his day
Everyone will have a time of success or good fortune.
"I know things are tough now, but every dog has his day."
a dog's breakfast
A mess; something done badly.
"The presentation was a dog's breakfast."
From Old English *docga*, of uncertain origin, possibly related to a Germanic word for 'powerful dog' or related to the word 'dogge' which was an Old English word for a specific type of powerful breed.
The word 'dog' has been used in English since around the 10th century. Its early usage was primarily to refer to a specific type of dog, but it gradually became the general term for the animal.
Memory tip
Think of the furry friend that wags its tail and loves to play fetch.
Word Origin
"Uncertain; possibly related to Germanic words for a powerful dog."