Dog

Definition

Dog is a noun referring to a domesticated mammal (Canis lupus familiaris) belonging to the family Canidae. Known for its loyalty and companionship, the dog is one of the earliest domesticated animals and is often referred to as "man’s best friend." As a verb, "dog" means to follow closely or to persistently bother.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɔɡ/
• Respelling: dawg

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɒɡ/
• Respelling: dog

Etymology

The word "dog" originated in Old English as "docga," referring to a specific breed of powerful dog. By the Middle Ages, it had become a general term for all domestic canines, replacing the earlier Old English "hound." The term has remained in usage with relatively little change through the centuries.

Derivatives

• Dogged (adjective)
• Doggy (noun/adjective)
• Underdog (noun)
• Doggedly (adverb)
• Doghouse (noun)

Synonyms

• Canine
• Hound
• Pooch

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "dog" is used to refer to the domestic pet known for its loyalty and companionship, as in "They adopted a dog from the shelter." As a verb, it describes persistent following or troubling, as in "Problems seemed to dog him throughout his career."

Related Terms

• Pet: An animal kept primarily for companionship.
• Mammal: A warm-blooded vertebrate animal with fur or hair.
• Domestication: The process by which animals are adapted to live with humans.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A domesticated mammal known for loyalty and companionship: Refers to the animal, Canis lupus familiaris, kept as a pet or working animal.
  • Example: "The dog barked at the stranger approaching the house."
• A male animal of certain species: Refers to the male counterpart in species such as foxes, wolves, and others.
  • Example: "The dog fox was spotted near the den."

Verb

• To follow closely or persistently: Used to describe someone or something persistently tracking or pursuing another.
  • Example: "The reporter dogged the celebrity to get an interview."
• To cause trouble or persistently affect: Refers to challenges or problems that continually hinder or trouble someone.
  • Example: "Financial issues dogged him for years."