Beagle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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beagle

[หˆbiหษกl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

dog breed

The Beagle is a small to medium-sized breed of hound known for its keen sense of smell and tracking instinct. They are friendly, curious, and merry in nature, making them excellent family pets. Beagles are known for their distinctive appearance with short hair, long ears, and a short tail. They originate from ancient hound breeds and have been traditionally used for hunting purposes.

Synonyms

dog, hound, tracker.

Examples of usage

  • My family has a Beagle that loves to play in the yard.
  • The Beagle is an excellent scent hound.
  • Many people choose Beagles for their friendly demeanor.
  • A Beagle's bark can be quite loud.
  • My Beagle loves to follow scents during our walks.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The beagle is believed to originate from ancient Greece, where similar dogs were used for hunting small game.
  • In medieval times, beagles were bred in England specifically for hunting rabbits and hare due to their keen sense of smell.
  • The word 'beagle' may come from the French word 'beigh' which means 'open throat,' likely referring to their distinctive bark.

Pop Culture

  • Beagles have appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and cartoons, including the famous character Snoopy from the 'Peanuts' comic strip.
  • The animated film 'The Fox and the Hound' features a beagle character named Copper, showcasing their role as loyal companions.
  • In more modern media, beagles are frequently portrayed as detective or sleuthing dogs, emphasizing their exceptional tracking abilities.

Science

  • Studies have shown that beagles possess one of the best senses of smell among dog breeds, even more sensitive than some police dogs.
  • Beagles are often chosen for scent detection work due to their ability to track scents at very low concentrations, making them valuable for search and rescue operations.
  • Their genetic diversity helps scientists in research, especially in studies regarding canine genetics and behavior.

Psychology

  • Having a pet beagle can significantly improve mood and reduce stress, as their playful demeanor encourages playfulness and affection.
  • Research suggests that interacting with beagles and other dogs can increase levels of oxytocin, the bonding hormone, in humans.
  • Beagles are known for being very social dogs, which might contribute to their ability to form strong bonds with humans and other animals.

Literature

  • Beagles have been featured in various literary works, symbolizing loyalty and companionship, such as in 'The Call of the Wild' by Jack London.
  • In children's literature, beagles appear in stories highlighting their friendly nature and adventurous spirit, often appealing to young readers.
  • The breed's popularity has inspired numerous childrenโ€™s books focusing on dog adventures, illustrating their traits as playful and curious.

Origin of 'beagle'

The name 'Beagle' has a somewhat uncertain origin, but it is believed to derive from the Old French word 'beigh' or 'beagle', which refers to a small hound. The breed has roots in ancient Egypt and Rome, where small hound types similar to the Beagle were depicted in art. They were utilized as hunting dogs for thousands of years, especially in Britain, where their skills in tracking game earned them a special place among hunters. The modern Beagle breed was developed in England in the 19th century, focusing on their ability to follow scents and their friendly disposition. Over time, Beagles have become popular as both working dogs in hunting and beloved companions in households worldwide.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,462 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.