Pet: meaning, definitions and examples

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pet

 

[ pɛt ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

animal companion

An animal that is kept for companionship and enjoyment, such as a dog, cat, or bird. Pets are often considered part of the family and provide emotional support and entertainment.

Synonyms

animal companion, domestic animal, furry friend

Examples of usage

  • I love spending time with my pet dog.
  • She has a pet parrot that can mimic human speech.
  • Many people find comfort in having a pet at home.
Context #2 | Verb

to stroke or caress lovingly

To stroke or caress an animal or person in a gentle and loving way. It is a gesture of affection or care towards the recipient.

Synonyms

caress, fondle, stroke

Examples of usage

  • She pets her cat every night before bed.
  • The child gently pets the dog's head.
  • He pets his girlfriend's hair as a sign of love.

Translations

Translations of the word "pet" in other languages:

🇵🇹 animal de estimação

🇮🇳 पालतू जानवर

🇩🇪 Haustier

🇮🇩 hewan peliharaan

🇺🇦 домашня тварина

🇵🇱 zwierzę domowe

🇯🇵 ペット (petto)

🇫🇷 animal de compagnie

🇪🇸 mascota

🇹🇷 evcil hayvan

🇰🇷 애완동물 (aewandongmul)

🇸🇦 حيوان أليف (haywan aleif)

🇨🇿 domácí zvíře

🇸🇰 domáce zviera

🇨🇳 宠物 (chǒngwù)

🇸🇮 hišni ljubljenček

🇮🇸 gæludýr

🇰🇿 үй жануары

🇬🇪 შინაური ცხოველი (shinauri ts'khvheli)

🇦🇿 ev heyvanı

🇲🇽 mascota

Word origin

The word 'pet' originated in the 16th century and was originally used to refer to a lamb or other young animal brought up by hand. Over time, it evolved to encompass all animals kept for companionship. The concept of pets as valued members of the family dates back centuries, with various cultures having different beliefs and practices regarding pet ownership.

See also: petite, pets, petting, petty, petulant.