dog

The word “dog” means a domesticated mammal (Canis familiaris) kept as a pet or working animal, closely related to wolves. In plain terms, most commonly, man's best friend — the domestic dog — though it has several slang and technical senses too.

“Dog” is pronounced dog (/dɒɡ/ in IPA).

Here is “dog” used in a sentence: “The dog barked at the mail carrier every morning.”

Words with a similar meaning to “dog” include taxonomic names: Canis familiaris, domestic dog, Canis domesticus, Canis familiarus domesticus, Canis canis and Canis aegyptius.

“Dog” is a noun.

The word “dog” comes from Old English. From Old English docga, a word of uncertain origin that eventually replaced "hound" as the general term for the animal.

“Dog” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

“Dog” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a domesticated mammal (Canis familiaris) kept as a pet or working animal, closely related to wolves.

Dogs and wolves share an ancestor and remain close relatives, but dogs were domesticated over thousands of years to live alongside people. Dogs are generally smaller, far more varied in appearance, and much more trusting of humans, while wolves are wild, wary, and hunt in packs to survive.

Domestic dogs come in hundreds of breeds, usually grouped by the jobs they were bred for: working dogs, herding dogs, hounds, terriers, gun dogs, toy or companion breeds, and utility dogs. They range enormously in size and temperament, from tiny lap dogs to powerful guard and sled dogs.

The phrase reflects the unusually close bond between dogs and people. Having lived alongside humans for millennia, dogs are loyal, affectionate, and quick to read our moods. They work with us, guard our homes, and offer steady companionship, which is why they have long been seen as our most devoted animal friend.