Dogs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🐶
dogs
[dɔːɡz ]
Definitions
pet
Dogs are domesticated mammals, not natural wild animals. They were originally bred from wolves. They have been bred by humans for thousands of years, resulting in a wide range of breeds with different characteristics.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dogs |
Common, everyday usage to refer to the domesticated animal that is a pet or working animal. Suitable for general conversation and informal contexts.
|
| canine |
More formal or scientific context, often used to describe things related to dogs, such as their teeth or professional terms in veterinary science.
|
| pooch |
Informal and affectionate context, often used in a playful or loving manner when referring to a pet dog.
|
| hound |
Used to describe a specific type of dog that is bred for hunting. Can also have a slightly negative connotation when describing a person who is persistently pursuing something.
|
Examples of usage
- They adopted a rescue dog from the shelter.
- My neighbor's dog is very friendly.
insult
In slang, 'dogs' can sometimes refer to feet. It is often used to describe tired or sore feet.
Synonyms
feet.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dogs |
Used to refer to the animal, typically as a pet or working animal. It can be used in both casual and formal conversation.
|
Examples of usage
- After walking all day, my dogs are killing me.
- I need to sit down and rest, my dogs are tired.
criticize
To 'dog' someone means to follow or pursue them persistently, often in a harassing or annoying way.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dogs |
Use this word to refer to multiple domesticated canine animals, particularly in a casual or general setting.
|
| stalk |
Used for describing the act of stealthily following someone or something, usually with harmful intent. It often has a very negative connotation.
|
| hound |
Typically used to refer to a type of dog bred for hunting, but can also imply persistent pursuit. The latter use often carries a negative connotation.
|
| pursue |
Best used in the context of chasing or following with the intent to catch or achieve something, often in a determined or focused manner.
|
Examples of usage
- The paparazzi dogged the celebrity's every move.
- He felt like bad luck was dogging him wherever he went.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Dogs were one of the first domesticated animals, dating back to at least 15,000 years ago.
- Archaeological evidence suggests they were likely bred from wolves, showing a long history of human-animal companionship.
- Throughout history, dogs have served as hunters, herders, and guardians, playing vital roles in human societies.
Science
- Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell, estimated to be up to 100,000 times more sensitive than humans.
- They can be trained to detect various substances, including drugs and even diseases like cancer.
- Research shows that dogs are capable of understanding human emotion, responding to cues like our tone of voice.
Pop Culture
- Dogs have starred in countless movies, from the adventurous 'Lassie' to the heartwarming 'Marley & Me'.
- The 2015 animated film 'The Secret Life of Pets' highlights the amusing antics of dogs when left home alone.
- Dogs often play roles in popular video games, like the loyal companion 'Dogmeat' in 'Fallout' series.
Psychology
- Studies show that owning a dog can reduce stress and anxiety levels, promoting mental well-being.
- The act of petting a dog releases oxytocin, known as the 'love hormone,' which strengthens human-animal bonds.
- Therapy dogs are trained to provide comfort and emotional support to individuals in hospitals or therapy settings.
Origin of 'dogs'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'dog' traces back to Old English 'docga', a term for a powerful breed.
- The exact origins of the term are uncertain, but it has transformed in many languages, often to signify loyalty.
- The Latin word 'canis' refers to the dog family, highlighting its early domestication.
The word 'dog' dates back to the Old English word 'docga', which referred to a powerful breed of canine. Dogs have been companions to humans for thousands of years, with evidence of domestication dating back to ancient times. They have served various roles, including hunting, herding, and companionship.
See also: dog, doggedly, doggy, doghouse, dogma, dogmatic, underdog.