english setter: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral to formal, specific to contexts discussing dog breeds, hunting, or canine sports.
Quick answer
What does “english setter” mean?
A breed of gun dog originally developed in the United Kingdom, known for its long, silky coat and skill in finding and indicating the position of game birds by freezing into a 'set' position.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A breed of gun dog originally developed in the United Kingdom, known for its long, silky coat and skill in finding and indicating the position of game birds by freezing into a 'set' position.
May be used metaphorically for someone or something that is elegant, well-bred, or exhibits a poised, attentive stillness. In very niche contexts, it can refer to typesetting equipment or a person who 'sets' something in English style.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is identical in reference to the dog breed. The breed is equally known in both regions, though specific field trial or show line conventions may have regional nuances.
Connotations
In the UK, strongly associated with countryside, gentry, and traditional game shooting. In the US, connotes a sporting dog, show rings, and family companionship.
Frequency
Moderate and stable in both varieties; not a common word in everyday conversation but standard within its domain.
Grammar
How to Use “english setter” in a Sentence
The [owner] hunts with an English setter.The [judge] admired the English setter's gait.She [verb: owns, breeds, trains] an English setter.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “english setter” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The English setter remained perfectly staunch on the grouse moor.
- Their kennel specialises in Laverack-type English setters.
American English
- We took our English setter to a field trial in Ohio.
- The English Setter is known for its friendly, gentle temperament.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in niche businesses like dog breeding, kennels, or pet supplies.
Academic
Used in zoology, veterinary science, and studies on canine genetics or behaviour.
Everyday
Used by dog enthusiasts, hunters, and pet owners.
Technical
Used in cynology (study of dogs), field trial regulations, and breed standards.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “english setter”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “english setter”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “english setter”
- Using lower case 'english setter' inconsistently in breed-specific writing.
- Confusing it with the Irish Setter or Gordon Setter.
- Using it as a verb phrase (e.g., 'He english setters the table').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
When referring specifically to the breed as a proper noun, capitalisation (English Setter) is standard and recommended. The lower-case form (English setter) is also widely accepted.
They are distinct breeds. English Setters are typically white with coloured ticking or patches (belton pattern). Irish Setters are solid mahogany red. Gordon Setters are black with tan markings.
Yes, they are generally known for their gentle, friendly, and good-natured personality. However, they are active sporting dogs requiring ample daily exercise and mental stimulation.
It refers to the dog's characteristic behaviour of freezing into a crouched or standing point ('set') upon scenting game, indicating the location to the hunter.
A breed of gun dog originally developed in the United Kingdom, known for its long, silky coat and skill in finding and indicating the position of game birds by freezing into a 'set' position.
English setter is usually neutral to formal, specific to contexts discussing dog breeds, hunting, or canine sports. in register.
English setter: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ ˈsɛtə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ ˈsɛt̬ər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “As steady as an old English setter”
- “To set like a setter”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a sophisticated ENGLISH gentleman 'SETTING' his elegant dog on the moor. The dog is 'set' in place.
Conceptual Metaphor
ELEGANCE IS A WELL-BRED DOG (The English setter embodies a certain aristocratic, graceful beauty). / ATTENTIVENESS IS A POINTING DOG.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary historical function of an English setter?