Pup Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pup
[pʌp ]
Definition
cute animals
A young dog, especially one less than a year old.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pup |
Informal and often used to refer to a young dog in casual conversation. It's less common in formal writing.
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| puppy |
Refers specifically to a young dog and is commonly used in both casual conversation and formal contexts. It's a more affectionate term than 'pup'.
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| dog |
General term used in all types of conversation and writing to refer to the animal. It can describe any age or breed.
|
| canine |
Technical or formal contexts, often used in scientific or medical discussions about dogs or their health. It refers to dogs in general, not just young ones.
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Examples of usage
- He adopted a little pup from the shelter.
- The pup wagged its tail excitedly.
- The golden retriever gave birth to a litter of adorable pups.
- The pup was playful and energetic.
- The family welcomed the new pup into their home.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Puppies have been a staple of popular culture, featuring in countless films and children's books, often symbolizing loyalty and affection.
- In many cultures, having a puppy is associated with companionship and is believed to bring joy to families.
- The phrase 'puppy love' describes the affectionate feelings often experienced by young people, highlighting the emotional connections associated with pups.
Behavioral Psychology
- Research shows that interacting with puppies can reduce stress and increase happiness, making them popular emotional support animals.
- Young dogs are highly impressionable; early socialization is crucial for good behavior as they grow older.
- Puppies engage in play behavior, which is essential for developing physical and social skills, as well as building bonding relationships.
Science
- Like human infants, puppies exhibit a critical socialization period when they learn about their environment and other beings, typically from 3 to 14 weeks of age.
- The sense of smell in puppies is highly developed even at a young age, allowing them to identify their mothers and siblings quickly.
- Puppies are born blind and deaf; their senses develop over a few weeks, leading to exploration of their surroundings.
Popularity in Pet Ownership
- Puppies are among the most popular pets worldwide, sought for their cuteness and playfulness.
- In recent years, the trend of 'puppy therapy' has grown, with trained puppies visiting hospitals and schools to provide comfort and joy.
- Adoption of puppies from shelters has surged, emphasizing the importance of giving homes to young dogs in need.
Origin of 'pup'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pup' comes from the French word 'poupee,' meaning 'doll' or 'puppet,' suggesting the small size and cuteness of baby dogs.
- In the 17th century, 'pup' was commonly used to describe young animals, especially dogs.
- The term has been used informally in English since at least the 1800s, emphasizing its playful connotation.
The word 'pup' originated in the late 15th century as a shortening of 'puppy'. It has been used to refer to young dogs for centuries, with its popularity increasing in recent years due to its association with cute and endearing images of puppies.