dogtooth: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2/RareTechnical/Formal
Quick answer
What does “dogtooth” mean?
A small, pointed, canine tooth of a dog, wolf, or similar mammal.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, pointed, canine tooth of a dog, wolf, or similar mammal.
A decorative architectural pattern of small repeated squares with a projecting corner, resembling a tooth; a type of check fabric pattern, also called 'houndstooth'; a type of violet flower (Erythronium dens-canis).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minor. The architectural term is used identically. The fabric/pattern is more commonly called 'houndstooth' in both, but 'dogtooth' is understood. The flower name is standard in botanical contexts in both.
Connotations
Same neutral-to-technical connotation in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally rare and specialized in both dialects.
Grammar
How to Use “dogtooth” in a Sentence
[Adj] + dogtooth + [Noun] (e.g., Gothic dogtooth ornament)[Verb] + [Prep] + dogtooth (e.g., decorated with dogtooth)dogtooth + of + [Noun] (e.g., dogtooth of a wolf)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dogtooth” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [No standard verb use]
American English
- [No standard verb use]
adverb
British English
- [No standard adverb use]
American English
- [No standard adverb use]
adjective
British English
- The tailor recommended a dogtooth-check suit for the meeting.
- The Norman doorway features dogtooth moulding.
American English
- She wore a sharp dogtooth-pattern blazer.
- The early Gothic revival church has dogtooth ornamentation.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, possibly in fashion retail: 'The autumn line features a classic dogtooth check.'
Academic
Used in history of architecture, art history, botany, and textiles.
Everyday
Very rare. A speaker might say, 'Is that a houndstooth or a dogtooth pattern?'
Technical
Standard term in specific architectural descriptions (Norman or Early English Gothic dogtooth) and in textile manufacturing.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “dogtooth”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “dogtooth”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dogtooth”
- Using 'dogtooth' to mean any dog's tooth in casual conversation. Confusing 'dogtooth' with 'houndstooth' (they are synonymous for the pattern, but 'houndstooth' is more common). Misspelling as 'dog's tooth' when referring to the technical/compound noun.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
For the fabric pattern, they are synonyms. 'Houndstooth' is the more common modern term in fashion. 'Dogtooth' is also the correct term for the architectural ornament and the flower.
No. It's a specialized term (C2 level). You will almost never need it in daily conversation, only when discussing specific topics like architecture, fashion, or botany.
For the literal tooth of a dog, yes, 'dog's tooth' is natural. For the technical meanings (architecture, pattern, flower), you must use the compound 'dogtooth' as a single word.
The carved stone ornament resembles a series of small, pointed, pyramidal shapes, which historically reminded people of a canine tooth.
A small, pointed, canine tooth of a dog, wolf, or similar mammal.
Dogtooth is usually technical/formal in register.
Dogtooth: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdɒɡtuːθ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdɔːɡtuːθ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None directly associated with 'dogtooth' as an idiom]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a stylized DOG's TOOTH carved in stone on an old cathedral, or printed on a fabric.
Conceptual Metaphor
SHARPNESS / POINTEDNESS FOR DECORATION (architectural); ANIMAL ATTRIBUTE FOR PATTERN (textile).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'dogtooth' LEAST likely to be used professionally?