golden retriever: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral to informal. Common in general, everyday use, pet care contexts, and informal writing.
Quick answer
What does “golden retriever” mean?
A medium to large-sized breed of dog, originally developed for retrieving game in hunting, known for its dense, lustrous golden coat, gentle mouth, and friendly, tolerant temperament.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A medium to large-sized breed of dog, originally developed for retrieving game in hunting, known for its dense, lustrous golden coat, gentle mouth, and friendly, tolerant temperament.
A symbol or stereotype of a gentle, loyal, and friendly family pet; can be used metaphorically to describe a person with a very amiable, trustworthy, and eager-to-please disposition.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or semantic differences. Spelling of related words may differ (e.g., 'colour/color'). The breed standard specifications are managed by separate kennel clubs (The Kennel Club (UK) vs. American Kennel Club (AKC)).
Connotations
Identical positive connotations of family-friendliness, intelligence, and gentleness in both cultures.
Frequency
Equally high frequency and recognition in both the UK and US as one of the most popular dog breeds.
Grammar
How to Use “golden retriever” in a Sentence
[Owner] has/owns a golden retriever.[Golden retriever] is [adjective].The [adjective] golden retriever [verb].A breed known as the golden retriever.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “golden retriever” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He has a classic golden-retriever personality.
- The advert used golden-retriever imagery to sell comfort.
American English
- She gave me a golden-retriever smile, all warmth and friendliness.
- The company's golden-retriever brand mascot was a huge hit.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in the pet industry, veterinary, or dog breeding/training business contexts.
Academic
Rare. Could appear in veterinary science, animal behaviour studies, or genetics papers.
Everyday
Very common. Used in conversations about pets, family, dog parks, and animal-related activities.
Technical
Used in cynology (study of dogs), kennel club standards, veterinary diagnostics, and professional dog breeding/training.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “golden retriever”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “golden retriever”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “golden retriever”
- Misspelling as 'golden retriver' or 'golden retreiver'.
- Using 'golden retriever' as an adjective without a hyphen in compound modifiers (e.g., 'golden retriever puppy' is correct; 'golden-retriever temperament' uses a hyphen).
- Confusing with 'Labrador retriever'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are distinct breeds. Golden retrievers typically have longer, golden coats and a slightly different head shape, while Labradors have shorter coats and come in three main colours (black, yellow, chocolate). Both are retrievers and share many personality traits.
Generally, yes. Their friendly, trainable, and adaptable nature makes them a popular choice for novice owners, but potential owners should be prepared for their high energy levels, grooming needs, and size.
The average lifespan is typically 10 to 12 years.
Yes. They have a dense double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year and more heavily during seasonal changes ("blowing coat"). Regular grooming is essential.
A medium to large-sized breed of dog, originally developed for retrieving game in hunting, known for its dense, lustrous golden coat, gentle mouth, and friendly, tolerant temperament.
Golden retriever is usually neutral to informal. common in general, everyday use, pet care contexts, and informal writing. in register.
Golden retriever: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡəʊl.dən rɪˈtriː.vər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɡoʊl.dən rɪˈtriː.vɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “He has the loyalty of a golden retriever.”
- “As eager to please as a golden retriever.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'retriever' of 'golden' happiness – a dog that brings back joy (and toys) with its sunny, gold-coloured coat.
Conceptual Metaphor
A GOLDEN RETRIEVER IS A SOURCE OF UNCONDITIONAL LOVE / A GOLDEN RETRIEVER IS A MODEL OF LOYALTY.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary historical function indicated by the 'retriever' part of 'golden retriever'?