Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Setter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐶
Add to dictionary

setter

[ˈsɛtər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

dog breed

A setter is a type of dog that is specifically bred to locate and set (or point) game birds for hunters. There are several breeds of setters, including the English Setter, Irish Setter, and Gordon Setter, each known for their friendly nature and beautiful coats.

Synonyms

hunting dog, pointer.

Examples of usage

  • The Irish Setter is known for its stunning red coat.
  • I took my Setter hunting and it quickly located the birds.
  • Setters are often used in hunting due to their excellent sense of smell.
Context #2 | Noun

programming

In programming, a setter is a method used to set the value of an object's property. It is a part of the property access methodology that allows control over how a property is modified.

Synonyms

modifier, mutator.

Examples of usage

  • You should implement a setter to validate the user input.
  • Setters allow encapsulation in object-oriented programming.
  • The setter method ensures that the variable remains private.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Breeds

  • There are several types of setters, including the English Setter, Irish Setter, and Gordon Setter, each with unique traits and appearances.
  • English Setters are known for their beautiful, feathered coats and gentle demeanor, making them great family pets.

Pop Culture

  • Setters have appeared in various movies and TV shows, often showcased as loyal companions and clever heroes.
  • The Irish Setter gained popularity in the 1960s, often featured in advertisements and media due to its stunning looks.

Training & Behavior

  • Setters are known for their energetic and playful nature, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation.
  • With proper training, setters can excel in various activities, including field trials, agility tests, and as therapy dogs.

Cultural Significance

  • In hunting traditions worldwide, setters play a crucial role in bird flushing, showcasing their importance in various cultures.
  • Historically, setters were symbols of nobility, often depicted in art alongside hunters, reflecting the bond between humans and dogs.

Origin of 'setter'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'setter' comes from the term 'set,' which means to place something down, highlighting the dog's role in setting and retrieving game.
  • Originally associated with hunting, the term was adopted in the 19th century to describe breeds known for retrieving and setting game animals.

The term 'setter' traces its origins back to the early 18th century, deriving from the verb 'to set', which means to place or put something in a specified position. In the context of hunting dogs, it refers to the dog's behavior of setting or pointing game birds by crouching low to the ground. This behavior was prized among hunters, leading to the breeding of dogs specifically for this purpose. The breed's name reflects this skillful characteristic. Over time, the term expanded into other fields, including programming, where it describes methods designed to set values for object properties, thus reflecting the foundational act of placing or assigning a value in various contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,588, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.