gordon setter: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal/Technical
Quick answer
What does “gordon setter” mean?
A breed of large gun dog, originally bred in Scotland for hunting game birds, characterized by a black and tan coat.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A breed of large gun dog, originally bred in Scotland for hunting game birds, characterized by a black and tan coat.
A specific type of setter dog, known for its loyalty, intelligence, and distinctive coloration, often used as a working gundog or family companion.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning. The breed name is identical. The breed's history is more commonly referenced in UK contexts.
Connotations
In the UK, stronger connotations to field trials, gundog work, and Scottish heritage. In the US, connotations are more general to dog shows and companionship.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in UK English due to the breed's origin, but overall low frequency in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “gordon setter” in a Sentence
The Gordon Setter [verb: retrieved, pointed, waited].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gordon setter” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The dog will gordon setter across the moor.
- He's been gordon setting since he was a pup.
American English
- The dog will Gordon Setter through the field.
- She enjoys Gordon Setting in the woods.
adverb
British English
- The dog ran Gordon Setter-like across the hill.
- He pointed Gordon Setter-ly at the pheasant.
American English
- The dog moved Gordon Setter-fast through the brush.
- She waited Gordon Setter-patiently.
adjective
British English
- She has a Gordon Setter puppy.
- It was a proper Gordon Setter stance.
American English
- He bought a Gordon Setter leash.
- They admired the Gordon Setter grace.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in contexts of pet industry, breeding, or veterinary services.
Academic
Used in zoology, canine genetics, or historical texts on dog breeding.
Everyday
Used by dog enthusiasts, hunters, or in general conversation about pets.
Technical
Common in kennel club standards, veterinary medicine, and dog show commentary.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gordon setter”
- Misspelling as 'Gorden Setter' or 'Gordon Setter'.
- Using it as a common noun without capitalization (e.g., 'a gordon setter').
- Confusing it with the Irish Setter or English Setter.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, with proper exercise and training, they are loyal and affectionate family companions, though their high energy and size require an active household.
The most obvious difference is coat colour: Gordon Setters are black and tan, while Irish Setters are a solid rich mahogany or chestnut red.
They are intelligent and eager to please but can be strong-willed. Consistent, positive training methods from an early age are recommended.
As a sporting breed, they require substantial daily exercise—at least one to two hours of vigorous activity such as running, hiking, or structured play.
A breed of large gun dog, originally bred in Scotland for hunting game birds, characterized by a black and tan coat.
Gordon setter is usually formal/technical in register.
Gordon setter: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡɔːdən ˈsɛtə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡɔːrdən ˈsɛtər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “As loyal as a Gordon Setter.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
GORDON SETTER: Great Outdoors Rover, Distinguished, Obedient, Noble - Scotland's Excellent Tan & Black Terrain Explorer Retriever.
Conceptual Metaphor
LOYALTY IS A STEADFAST DOG (The Gordon Setter exemplifies unwavering loyalty and dedication).
Practice
Quiz
What is a primary characteristic of a Gordon Setter's coat?