Pet

Definition

Pet can function as a noun, verb, or adjective. As a noun, it refers to a domesticated animal kept for companionship or pleasure. As a verb, it means to stroke or show affection toward an animal or person. As an adjective, it describes something that is particularly cherished or favored.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɛt/
• Respelling: PET

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɛt/
• Respelling: PET

Etymology

The word "pet" originates from Middle English "pet," referring to a tamed animal. It likely derived from Scottish Gaelic "peata," meaning "tamed animal" or "companion," and has been in use since the 16th century.

Derivatives

• Petting (noun, verb)
• Petite (adjective, unrelated but phonetically derived)
• Petitioner (noun, unrelated but phonetically derived)
• Petulant (adjective, unrelated but phonetically similar)
• Pettable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Companion
• Domestic animal
• Favorite

Antonyms

• Wild animal
• Stranger
• None

Usage

The term "pet" is commonly used to refer to animals kept for companionship. For example, "She has a cat as a pet" or "He likes to pet his dog after work."

Related Terms

• Domestication: The process of taming animals for human companionship or work.
• Companion animal: An animal kept primarily for a person's company.
• Owner: A person who owns a pet.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A domesticated animal kept for companionship: Refers to animals, such as cats, dogs, or birds, cared for by humans.
  • Example: "His pet dog greeted him at the door."
• Something cherished or favored: Refers to a favorite object or person.
  • Example: "This project is her pet endeavor."

Verb

• To stroke or show affection: Refers to touching or caressing an animal or person in a loving way.
  • Example: "She loves to pet her cat."
• To indulge or favor: Refers to treating someone with special care.
  • Example: "He tends to pet his favorite students."

Adjective

• Particularly cherished or favored: Refers to something regarded with special preference.
  • Example: "This is my pet theory about the issue."