american water spaniel: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1-C2Formal / Technical
Quick answer
What does “american water spaniel” mean?
A specific breed of sporting dog originating in the United States, bred for retrieving waterfowl.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A specific breed of sporting dog originating in the United States, bred for retrieving waterfowl.
Primarily refers to this specific dog breed. It can occasionally be used metonymically to refer to an individual dog of this breed.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is identical; however, the breed is far more common and recognized in American contexts. A British speaker might be unfamiliar with the specific breed but would understand the term's components ('water spaniel').
Connotations
In the US: connotations of hunting, the Midwest, and wetland environments. In the UK: recognized as an American breed, possibly associated with novelty or specialization.
Frequency
Significantly more frequent in American English due to the breed's origin and primary geographic distribution.
Grammar
How to Use “american water spaniel” in a Sentence
The [American Water Spaniel] retrieved the duck.He owns an [American Water Spaniel].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “american water spaniel” in a Sentence
adjective
American English
- He prefers American Water Spaniel lines known for their strong retrieving instinct.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in specific contexts like canine genetics, veterinary science, or historical studies of dog breeds.
Everyday
Used by dog enthusiasts, hunters, and in conversations about pets or dog breeds.
Technical
Used in kennel club registries, dog show judging, and breeding documentation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “american water spaniel”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “american water spaniel”
- Incorrect: 'an American water spaniel' (lowercase) when referring to the breed as a proper noun. Correct: 'an American Water Spaniel'.
- Incorrect: Using it as a general term for any spaniel near water.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they can be, as they are generally loyal and intelligent. However, they are active hunting dogs requiring ample exercise and mental stimulation.
It originated in the United States, specifically around the Great Lakes region, during the 19th century.
It typically has a curly or marcel (wave) coat that is liver (brown) or chocolate in color, providing protection in cold water.
No, it is relatively rare even within the US and is quite uncommon internationally.
A specific breed of sporting dog originating in the United States, bred for retrieving waterfowl.
American water spaniel is usually formal / technical in register.
American water spaniel: in British English it is pronounced /əˈmɛrɪkən ˈwɔːtə ˈspanjəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /əˈmɛrɪkən ˈwɔːtər ˈspænjəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: AMerican + WATER + SPANIEL = A dog (spaniel) from America that loves water.
Conceptual Metaphor
N/A (The term is a concrete, technical name.)
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function for which the American Water Spaniel was bred?