canine: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, technical, literary.
Quick answer
What does “canine” mean?
Relating to or resembling a dog or dogs.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Relating to or resembling a dog or dogs.
In anatomy, a pointed tooth (canine tooth); of the family Canidae which includes dogs, wolves, and foxes; often used to describe loyalty or fierceness.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in core meaning. 'Canine' as a noun for 'dog' is slightly more common in formal/technical American contexts (e.g., 'canine unit').
Connotations
In both varieties, carries formal/scientific connotations. In everyday speech, 'dog' is far more common.
Frequency
Low frequency in casual speech; higher in veterinary, anatomical, police, and literary contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “canine” in a Sentence
[adjective] + noun (e.g., canine loyalty)noun of + canine origin (e.g., a study of canine anatomy)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “canine” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The researcher noted the animal's remarkable canine agility.
American English
- The officer praised the K9 unit for its canine sense of smell.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly in pet industry branding (e.g., 'Canine Care Products').
Academic
Common in biology, anatomy, veterinary science, and behavioural studies.
Everyday
Uncommon. Used mainly for the tooth ('canine tooth') or humorously/ formally for a dog.
Technical
Standard in veterinary medicine, dentistry, zoology, and police/military contexts (K9).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “canine”
- Using 'canine' as a casual synonym for 'dog' in everyday chat sounds stilted. Mispronouncing as /kəˈnaɪn/. Confusing 'canine' (dog) with 'bovine' (cow).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, primarily in technical, scientific, or formal contexts. In everyday conversation, 'dog' is almost always preferred.
'K9' is a homophone-based abbreviation (K-nine = canine) used specifically for police or military dog units. 'Canine' is the standard English word.
No, 'canine' is only a noun or adjective. There is no standard verb form.
Yes, wolves are members of the biological family Canidae, so they are canines.
Relating to or resembling a dog or dogs.
Canine: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkeɪnaɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkeɪnaɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “His canine loyalty was unquestionable.”
- “She bared her canines in a snarl.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'CANada' because of the Canadian Eskimo Dog, a classic canine breed.
Conceptual Metaphor
LOYALTY IS CANINE (e.g., 'his canine devotion'); FEROCITY/PREDATION IS CANINE (e.g., 'canine aggression').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'canine' LEAST likely to be used?