noun
spaniel
SPAN-yuhl
Spaniel (noun) means a type of gun dog with a broad muzzle, long wavy fur, and drooping ears, traditionally bred for hunting. Example: “Their spaniel loved chasing birds out of the hedges.”
noun
1
A type of gun dog with a broad muzzle, long wavy fur, and drooping ears, traditionally bred for hunting.
"Their spaniel loved chasing birds out of the hedges."
"Cocker spaniels are known for their gentle temperament."
How to use spaniel
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA floppy-eared hunting dog breed, like a cocker spaniel or springer spaniel.
Common pairings
cocker spaniel
springer spaniel
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Word forms
- Plural
- spaniels
- Third person singular
- spaniels
- Past tense
- spanieled, spanielled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Their _____ loved chasing birds out of the hedges.
Etymology
From Old French espaigneul, meaning roughly "Spanish (dog)," since the breed was associated with Spain.
Rhymes for spaniel
See all rhymes for spaniel →Frequently asked questions
What does “spaniel” mean?
The word “spaniel” means a type of gun dog with a broad muzzle, long wavy fur, and drooping ears, traditionally bred for hunting. In plain terms, a floppy-eared hunting dog breed, like a cocker spaniel or springer spaniel.
How do you pronounce “spaniel”?
“Spaniel” is pronounced SPAN-yuhl (/ˈspænjəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “spaniel” in a sentence?
Here is “spaniel” used in a sentence: “Their spaniel loved chasing birds out of the hedges.”
What part of speech is “spaniel”?
“Spaniel” is a noun.
Where does the word “spaniel” come from?
The word “spaniel” comes from Old French. From Old French espaigneul, meaning roughly "Spanish (dog)," since the breed was associated with Spain.
