Whelp: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ถ
whelp
[wษlp ]
Definitions
young animal
A whelp is a young offspring of a dog or another carnivorous mammal, especially during the first few weeks after birth. It is commonly used when referring to puppies, but can also apply to the young of certain wild animals. Whelps are known for their rapid growth and development during early life stages.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The whelp followed its mother closely.
- Veterinarians conducted a checkup on the litter of whelps.
- She fostered a whelp that had been abandoned.
- The whelp played joyfully with its siblings.
give birth
To whelp means to give birth to whelps, especially in reference to dogs. When a dog is said to whelp, it signifies that she is in labor and is delivering her puppies. This term is often used in breeding and veterinary contexts.
Synonyms
birth, bring forth, deliver, produce.
Examples of usage
- The dog whelped five healthy puppies.
- She was anxious as her dog began to whelp.
- After hours of waiting, the dog finally whelped the first pup.
- Whelping can be a challenging process for new mothers.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'whelp' comes from Old English 'whelp', referring to a young animal, especially a dog.
- It was historically used to describe not just dogs but also the young of various mammals, including wolves and lions.
- The term has been in use since at least the 12th century, showing its long-standing presence in the English language.
Animal Behavior
- Whelps are born blind and deaf, relying entirely on their mothers for warmth and food during their first few weeks.
- Socialization is crucial in a whelp's early life, as it helps them develop skills needed to interact with other dogs and humans.
- Many whelps begin to show their personalities between 3 to 4 weeks old, making them particularly playful and curious.
Cultural Significance
- Whelps often symbolize new beginnings and innocence in literature and art, showcasing the joy of youth.
- In many cultures, young dogs are associated with loyalty and companionship, reflecting their role as pets and helpers in human societies.
- Cinematic storytelling sometimes uses whelps to represent vulnerability and the need for protection.
Literature
- Whelps have appeared in classic literature, often representing innocence or the untamed spirit of nature.
- In some fables and folklore, young animals, including whelps, often play pivotal roles that convey moral lessons about growth and responsibility.
- Authors like Jack London in 'The Call of the Wild' highlight the theme of survival and instincts through the life of young wolves.
Science
- The gestation period for dogs is approximately 63 days, after which a litter of whelps is born, typically ranging from 1 to 12 puppies.
- Genetics play a significant role in the traits and behaviors of whelps, influencing their future as pets or working dogs.
- Veterinarians often focus on early physical and health assessments of whelps to ensure their proper growth and development.
Translations
Translations of the word "whelp" in other languages:
๐ต๐น filhote
๐ฎ๐ณ เคชเคฟเคฒเฅเคฒเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช Welpe
๐ฎ๐ฉ anak anjing
๐บ๐ฆ ัะตะฝั
๐ต๐ฑ szczeniak
๐ฏ๐ต ๅญ็ฌ
๐ซ๐ท chiot
๐ช๐ธ cachorro
๐น๐ท yavru
๐ฐ๐ท ๊ฐ์์ง
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฌุฑู
๐จ๐ฟ ลกtฤnฤ
๐ธ๐ฐ ลกteniatko
๐จ๐ณ ๅฐ็
๐ธ๐ฎ kuลพa
๐ฎ๐ธ hvolpur
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะตะฝะพะบ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแขแแ แ แซแแฆแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ puppy
๐ฒ๐ฝ cachorro
Word Frequency Rank
This word's position of #32,398 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.
- ...
- 32395 bling
- 32396 denigrating
- 32397 snored
- 32398 whelp
- 32399 yawing
- 32400 rubberized
- 32401 legit
- ...