Puppy Meaning and Definition
Puppy
Pronunciation
/ˈpʌpi/
Part of Speech
Common Noun
Definition
A puppy is a young canine, typically a domestic dog, in the first year of life. Puppies are known for their innocence, playfulness, and curiosity.
Examples
1. “The new puppy is adorable and loves to play fetch.”
2. “Many families choose to adopt a puppy as a pet because of its loyalty and affection towards its owners.”
Synonyms
1. Pup
2. Young dog
Antonyms
1. Adult dog
2. Exposed animal
Additional Information
Puppies are highly dependent on their mothers and caregivers for food, shelter, and protection during their early stages of development. Their behavior and social skills are shaped by their environment and interaction with other animals. Puppies are known for their speedy growth and development, and they are often socialized and trained during this period to become well-adjusted adult dogs. Puppies are also vulnerable to various health issues, such as parvovirus and parasites, which emphasize the importance of proper care and veterinary attention. In popular culture, puppies are often featured in movies, TV shows, and literature, and they are cherished as beloved family members and loyal companions. Their friendly and energetic nature makes them a popular subject of study and research in animal behavior and psychology.
Puppies, like human children, experience various stages of development. They start with a high level of dependency and gradually become more independent. During this period, they develop their motor skills, socialize with their littermates and humans, and learn important behaviors such as communication, grooming, and hunting. Puppies’ physical appearance also changes dramatically, with rapid growth of their muscles, bones, and coat. Effective care and training during this period not only help shape their adult personality but also equip them with the necessary skills to interact safely and beneficially with their owners and the environment.
Etymology
The term “puppy” originates from the Old English word “puppi,” which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*pupiz.” This term is related to the Proto-Indo-European root “*pu-,” which carries the meaning of “young one” or “small animal.” Over time, the term “puppy” has evolved to become a common noun in modern English, describing a young dog in its first year of life.
Usage Notes
The word “puppy” is commonly used in informal settings, such as conversations with friends or family members. However, it is also used in formal contexts, such as veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and pet stores. In some cultures, the term “puppy” is used to refer to a young dog of any breed, while in others, it is specific to certain breeds or types of dogs.
Cultural References
The word “puppy” has appeared in various forms of media, including films, TV shows, and literature. Some notable examples include the movie “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey,” where a group of dogs, including a puppy, embark on a journey to find their way back home, and the popular children’s book series “The Puppy,” which follows the adventures of a young puppy and its owner.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “puppy” include:
- “Puppy love” – a term used to describe the early stages of romantic love or infatuation.
- “Puppy-dog eyes” – a phrase used to describe a person’s pleading or begging expression, often used to manipulate others into doing something.
Collocations
Some common word combinations with the term “puppy” include:
- “Puppy and kitten”
- “Puppy love”
- “Puppy training”
Frequency of Use
The word “puppy” is commonly used in modern language, with an estimated frequency of use of around 0.5-1.5 times per 100,000 words in spoken and written English.
Some common misspellings of the word “puppy” include:
- pupie
- puppy
- puddy