mastiff

What is another word for mastiff? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — A breed of large, powerful, deep-chested dog with a smooth coat, traditionally kept as a watchdog or guard dog.

We haven't recorded synonyms for mastiff yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use mastiff

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

a guard mastiff an English mastiff a mastiff's bark

An everyday word used both in general speech and in formal breed descriptions.

Etymology

Mastiff developed from Middle English mastif, itself an altered form influenced by Old French mestif, drawing on Old French mastin. That word traces back through Vulgar Latin to the Latin mansuetus, meaning tamed.

Full origin of mastiff →

Frequently asked questions

What is a mastiff?

A mastiff is a large, powerfully built dog breed with a smooth coat, historically used for guarding property.

What is the plural of mastiff?

The usual plural is mastiffs, though the archaic form mastives is also recorded.

What were mastiffs originally bred for?

They were bred chiefly as watchdogs and guard dogs, valued for their strength and deep chest.

Nearby words

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