Sleuthhound Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ•โ€๐Ÿฆบ
Add to dictionary

sleuthhound

[sluหฮธhaสŠnd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

detective dog

A sleuthhound is a type of dog that is trained to track scents, often used in hunting or search and rescue operations. They possess a strong sense of smell and are known for their keen tracking abilities. The term can also refer to a person who investigates crimes or mysteries.

Synonyms

bloodhound, investigator, sleuth, tracker.

Examples of usage

  • The sleuthhound sniffed out the missing person.
  • He trained his sleuthhound for weeks before the big hunt.
  • The detective relied on the sleuthhound to uncover hidden clues.

Translations

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

Origin of 'sleuthhound'

The word 'sleuthhound' combines two elements: 'sleuth', which is derived from the Old English 'slลซth', meaning 'to track or follow', and 'hound', which comes from the Old English 'hund', indicating a type of dog. Originally, the term referred to dogs specifically bred for tracking scents, particularly in a hunting context. Over time, it evolved to also include the notion of a detective or investigator who 'tracks down' clues and evidence in solving crimes. The etymological roots connect the physical abilities of dogs in tracking with the metaphorical tracking done by detectives in solving cases. The sleuthhound is often associated with bloodhounds, known for their extraordinary sense of smell and ability to follow trails over long distances.