great dane: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, neutral, semi-technical (in canine contexts)
Quick answer
What does “great dane” mean?
A very large, powerful breed of domestic dog, originating in Germany, known for its size and gentle temperament.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A very large, powerful breed of domestic dog, originating in Germany, known for its size and gentle temperament.
A dog of this specific breed, often used as a companion or guard dog; metonymically, something of impressively large size.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in reference to the breed. Spelling remains the same.
Connotations
Identical in both varieties: grandeur, gentleness, imposing size.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties as a recognized breed name.
Grammar
How to Use “great dane” in a Sentence
[subject] owns/raised a Great DaneThe Great Dane [verb: bounded/stood/loped]a Great Dane of [noun: impressive stature/unusual colour]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “great dane” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He has a Great Dane-like loyalty about him.
- The sofa was of Great Dane proportions.
American English
- She has a Great Dane-sized appetite.
- They faced a Great Dane of a problem.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in veterinary science, animal husbandry, or historical texts on dog breeding.
Everyday
Common when discussing pets, dog breeds, or describing something very large.
Technical
A specific breed classification in kennel club registries (e.g., The Kennel Club, AKC).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “great dane”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “great dane”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “great dane”
- Writing it in lower case ('great dane') in formal breed-specific contexts.
- Misidentifying other large breeds as Great Danes.
- Pronouncing 'Dane' to rhyme with 'pan' instead of 'pain'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, yes. They are known as 'gentle giants' and can be very patient, but their large size means supervision with small children is essential to prevent accidental knocks.
The name is historical. In the 18th century, French naturalist Buffon referred to them as 'Grand Danois' (Great Danish), possibly comparing them to a Danish dog breed. The name stuck in English, while in German they are called 'Deutsche Dogge' (German Mastiff).
Great Danes have a relatively short lifespan for a dog, typically between 8 to 10 years, due to their giant size which places strain on their bodies.
Yes, when referring specifically to the breed name, it is a proper noun and should be capitalized as 'Great Dane'. In informal descriptive use ('a great dane of a man'), it may be in lower case.
A very large, powerful breed of domestic dog, originating in Germany, known for its size and gentle temperament.
Great dane is usually informal, neutral, semi-technical (in canine contexts) in register.
Great dane: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡreɪt ˈdeɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɡreɪt ˈdeɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A Great Dane in a china shop (play on 'bull in a china shop')”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of DENmark (Dane) producing something GREAT in size, though the breed is actually German.
Conceptual Metaphor
GREAT SIZE IS POWER/GENTLENESS (a giant that is friendly).
Practice
Quiz
What is the origin country of the Great Dane breed?