Hound: meaning, definitions and examples

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hound

[haʊnd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

domestic animal

A hound is a type of hunting dog used by hunters to track and chase game. They are known for their keen sense of smell and endurance.

Synonyms

canine, dog, tracking dog.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hound	This term is often used to refer to a specific type of dog that is bred for hunting or tracking. Hounds are known for their keen sense of smell and stamina. The hunter released his hound to track the scent of the deer Hounds are excellent at following trails that other dogs might miss
dog	This is the most common and general term for the animal. It's used in everyday language to refer to all types of dogs. She adopted a dog from the shelter The dog barked at the mailman
canine	This is a more formal or scientific term for dogs in general. It is often used in medical or biological contexts. The veterinarian specializes in canine health Canine teeth are designed for tearing meat
tracking dog	This term is used to specifically refer to dogs that are trained to follow scents or tracks. Often used in search and rescue operations or law enforcement. The police used a tracking dog to find the missing child Tracking dogs are essential in search and rescue missions

Examples of usage

The hound picked up the scent of the deer and began to track it through the woods.
The hound bayed loudly as it chased the fox across the field.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

contemptuous term

In informal usage, hound can be a derogatory term for a person who is annoying or persistent in their actions.

Examples of usage

Stop being such a hound and give me some space!
He's always hounding me for answers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'hound' comes from Old English 'hund', which originally covered all types of dogs.
In some dialects, 'hound' has a broader meaning, sometimes used informally to refer to any dog regardless of breed.

Culture

In medieval times, hounds were considered symbols of loyalty and were often depicted in art and literature.
Certain breeds of hounds, like Beagles and Bloodhounds, are depicted as loyal companions in popular movies and shows.

Science

Hounds have an incredible sense of smell, capable of detecting certain scents at concentrations as low as 1 part per trillion.
The tracking abilities of hounds are so efficient that they are used in search and rescue operations and police work.

Literature

Hounds appear frequently in literature; for example, in Arthur Conan Doyle's 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', a supernatural creature haunts the moors.
The character of the hound is often used to represent loyalty and companionship, as seen in numerous stories and fairy tales.

Sports

Hound racing is a popular competitive sport in some cultures, showcasing the dogs' speed and tracking skills.
In some areas, people still engage in traditional hunting with hounds, which requires a deep understanding and partnership between the dog and the handler.

Translations

Translations of the word "hound" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cão de caça

🇮🇳 शिकार का कुत्ता

🇩🇪 Jagdhund

🇮🇩 anjing pemburu

🇺🇦 гонча

🇵🇱 pies gończy

🇯🇵 猟犬 (りょうけん)

🇫🇷 chien de chasse

🇪🇸 perro de caza

🇹🇷 av köpeği

🇰🇷 사냥개

🇸🇦 كلب صيد

🇨🇿 lovecký pes

🇸🇰 lovecký pes

🇨🇳 猎犬 (lièquǎn)

🇸🇮 lovski pes

🇮🇸 veiðihundur

🇰🇿 аңшы ит

🇬🇪 ნადირობის ძაღლი (nadirobis dzaghli)

🇦🇿 ov iti

🇲🇽 perro de caza

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,493, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
15490 sensuous
15491 felicity
15492 considerate
15493 hound
15494 mitigated
15495 wed
15496 rectified
...