collie: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Everyday, neutral; more specific in dog-breeding contexts.
Quick answer
What does “collie” mean?
A breed of medium-sized, intelligent dog originally bred for herding sheep in Scotland, known for its long, narrow muzzle and often a distinctive coat of long hair.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A breed of medium-sized, intelligent dog originally bred for herding sheep in Scotland, known for its long, narrow muzzle and often a distinctive coat of long hair.
Can refer to any dog of this breed, or more generally, to a herding dog with similar characteristics. In extended, less formal use, it may be used as a generic term for a loyal or intelligent dog.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major differences. Both refer to the same breed. The pronunciation of 'collie' can be slightly different.
Connotations
In the UK, strongly associated with working farms (Border Collie) and sheep herding. In the US, often linked to the 'Lassie' image of the Rough Collie as a family pet.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties, given the global popularity of breeds like the Border Collie.
Grammar
How to Use “collie” in a Sentence
[own/have/train] + a + colliecollie + [barks/herds/plays]collie + is + [adjective: intelligent, energetic, loyal]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “collie” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Not used as a verb.
American English
- Not used as a verb.
adverb
British English
- Not used as an adverb.
American English
- Not used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- Not used as an adjective.
American English
- Not used as an adjective.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Unlikely, unless in pet industry or agriculture.
Academic
Rare, except in veterinary science, zoology, or agricultural history contexts.
Everyday
Common when discussing pets or dog breeds.
Technical
Used in dog breeding, veterinary medicine, and sheepdog trials.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “collie”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “collie”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “collie”
- Misspelling: 'colly', 'colli'. Incorrect plural: 'collies' is correct, not 'collie's'. Confusing 'collie' with 'colly' (an archaic word for soot or black).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. 'Sheepdog' is a general term for any dog that herds sheep. A 'collie' is a specific type or breed of sheepdog, originating in Scotland.
Border Collies are typically working dogs with medium-length coats, known for intense focus and energy. Rough Collies (like Lassie) are larger, with a very long coat and a more gentle, family-oriented temperament.
No, 'collie' is solely a noun referring to the dog breed.
The difference lies in the vowel sound of the first syllable. British English uses the short 'o' as in 'lot' (/ɒ/), while American English uses the 'ah' sound as in 'father' (/ɑː/). This is a common sound shift between the two dialects.
A breed of medium-sized, intelligent dog originally bred for herding sheep in Scotland, known for its long, narrow muzzle and often a distinctive coat of long hair.
Collie is usually everyday, neutral; more specific in dog-breeding contexts. in register.
Collie: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒli/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːli/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly. 'Work like a Border collie' is an occasional simile implying relentless, intelligent energy.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'COLLIE' as 'COLLECT + LIE' – the dog that collects sheep and lies down to herd them.
Conceptual Metaphor
COLLIE IS A SMART WORKER (e.g., 'He's as focused as a Border collie').
Practice
Quiz
The word 'collie' is most specifically associated with what primary function?